Who is playing in the 2023 PGA Championship? Field, top players, and predictions

In a thrilling showdown last year at Southern Hills, Justin Thomas emerged victorious as the defending champion of the PGA Championship. His impressive final-round performance of 67 allowed him to triumph over Will Zalatoris in a riveting playoff, securing the prestigious Wanamaker Trophy. Alongside Brooks Koepka, Thomas has dominated the event, clinching two out of the last six championships. However, Collin Morikawa and Phil Mickelson briefly interrupted their reign, taking the glory in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

This year, the PGA Championship returns to the majestic Oak Hill in Pittsford, New York. Notably, Oak Hill’s East Course witnessed Jason Dufner’s triumphant victory in 2013, as he finished with a remarkable score of -10. Nonetheless, spectators and players alike can anticipate an entirely transformed course since the last PGA Championship held here a decade ago. Course architect Andrew Green spearheaded a significant remodeling project to ensure the course remains faithful to the original Donald Ross design. The East Course, now restored to its par-70 layout, boasts an extended distance of 7,400 yards for this year’s highly anticipated tournament.

All eyes are on the players as they prepare to step onto the grand stage of Oak Hill, ready to showcase their talent and determination. Rahm and Scheffler, both highly regarded and in excellent form, are primed to demonstrate why they are considered favorites, using the tournament as an opportunity to solidify their positions among the game’s elite. Meanwhile, Thomas and Koepka, seasoned champions in their own right, seek to extend their remarkable streak of PGA dominance

When we talk about the possible favorites to win, the spotlight shines brightly on Rahm as golf enthusiasts eagerly await to witness a possible historic moment. Should the remarkable Spanish golfer triumph, he would etch his name in the annals of golfing history, becoming the first player since Jordan Spieth in 2015 to clinch the opening two Majors of the season. Rahm’s previous victories at the Masters and the US Open have set the stage for potential groundbreaking achievement. In addition, joining an esteemed cohort, only four players have managed to secure two Majors in a single year since 2013, further highlighting the significance of such a feat. All eyes remain fixated on Rahm as he embarks on his quest for glory at Oak Hill.

Scottie Scheffler and his remarkable performances have also earned him a prominent position on the favorites list, a well-deserved status considering his impressive track record and burgeoning influence in golf. Throughout the current year, Scheffler has demonstrated his prowess by claiming victory in two tournaments and achieving an exceptional four top-10 finishes out of nine events.

2023 PGA Championship players field