The 2025 PGA Championship is set to be a thrilling event, taking place at the prestigious Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina. This marks the first time the championship has returned to Quail Hollow since 2017, when Justin Thomas secured his first of two career PGA Championships. The tournament, scheduled from May 15-18, promises to be a showcase of top-tier golf talent, with a field of 156 world-class players vying for the title.
Course and Historical Significance
Quail Hollow Club is renowned for its challenging layout, which demands precision and strategy from the players. The course has a rich history in major championships, having hosted the Wells Fargo Championship multiple times. Rory McIlroy, a four-time winner at Quail Hollow in the Wells Fargo Championship, is an early co-favorite alongside Scottie Scheffler. McIlroy’s familiarity and success at Quail Hollow make him a formidable contender.
Key Contenders
Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy
Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy are the co-favorites at 5-1 odds. Scheffler, the world No. 1, is coming off a stellar performance at the Masters and is looking to solidify his standing at the top of the world rankings with a win at Quail Hollow. McIlroy, with his impressive record at Quail Hollow, is also a strong contender. His recent form and experience at the course make him a favorite to win his second PGA Championship.
Bryson DeChambeau and Ludvig Aberg
Bryson DeChambeau, who was the runner-up at last year’s event, is at 10-1 odds. DeChambeau’s powerful drives and aggressive play style make him a threat on any course, and his familiarity with Quail Hollow could give him an edge. Ludvig Aberg, at 12-1 odds, is another player to watch. Aberg has shown consistent form and has the potential to surprise many with a strong performance.
Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa
Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa are both at 12-1 and 14-1 odds respectively. Schauffele’s consistent play and Morikawa’s major championship experience make them strong contenders. Morikawa, in particular, has been highlighted by experts as a longshot with significant potential. His recent performances and his ability to perform under pressure make him a sleeper pick for the tournament.
Dark Horses and Sleeper Picks
Justin Thomas, the 2017 PGA Champion at Quail Hollow, is a sleeper pick at +2000 odds. Thomas recently ended a nearly three-year winless drought with a victory at the 2025 RBC Heritage, and his familiarity with the course could make him a dark horse contender. Other notable mentions include Daniel Berger and Tony Finau, both of whom have shown strong form leading up to the tournament.
Course Advantages
Quail Hollow’s challenging layout favors players with a strong all-around game. The course requires precision off the tee, strategic approach shots, and excellent putting. Players who have had success at Quail Hollow in the past, such as McIlroy and Thomas, have a significant advantage. The course’s demanding greens and strategic layout will test the players’ abilities to adapt and execute under pressure.
Conclusion: The Battle for Quail Hollow
The 2025 PGA Championship promises to be an exciting battle among some of the world’s top golfers. With a strong field and a challenging course, the tournament is set to deliver thrilling golf action. The co-favorites, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, are clear contenders, but the likes of Bryson DeChambeau, Ludvig Aberg, Xander Schauffele, and Collin Morikawa are not to be underestimated. As the players take to the greens at Quail Hollow, the stage is set for a memorable championship.