PGA Championship

The Championship began in 1916 as match play and changed to 72-hole stroke play in 1958. Its history follows the development of organized professional golf rather than one fixed competition format, and its place in today’s men’s major canon should not erase that evolution. ↘

The host course changes, and the Championship’s register records a long succession of American venues. That movement changes the architecture and conditions presented to the field; the continuing elements are the PGA of America’s professional mission and the Wanamaker Trophy. ↘

The PGA publishes edition-specific eligibility categories rather than offering open entry. Those routes include past championship records, recent performance in designated events and standings, and leading finishers from the PGA Professional Championship; the PGA of America may also invite additional players. The Championship is decided by 72-hole stroke play. ↘