The 2026 PGA Championship tees off Thursday, kicking off one of the most thrilling four-day stretches on the golf calendar. The world's elite have descended on Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, all chasing the iconic Wanamaker Trophy. With 156 players in the field, including heavyweights like World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, reigning Masters champion Rory McIlroy, five-time major winner Brooks Koepka, Cameron Young, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and more, there's no shortage of star power.
But with so many names to track, where should you focus your attention? We've ranked the must-watch groups for Thursday and Friday—the ones that will have you clearing your schedule and settling in for some appointment viewing.
1. Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Jordan Spieth
This trio is pure gold. McIlroy, the back-to-back Masters champion, is chasing his seventh major title. Rahm, a two-time major winner, faces mounting scrutiny after recent on- and off-course criticism—and there's lingering tension with McIlroy over the latter's comments on LIV Golf's uncertain future. Then there's Spieth, the fan favorite whose game is trending (sort of) as he pursues the career Grand Slam at Aronimink. Drama, stakes, and star power? Sign us up.
2. Bryson DeChambeau, Scottie Scheffler, Viktor Hovland
DeChambeau is entertainment personified, whether he's bombing drives or stirring up headlines. Paired with Scheffler, the unflappable World No. 1 who thrives under pressure, and Hovland, the silky-smooth Norwegian with a major breakthrough on his mind, this group blends power, precision, and personality.
3. Brooks Koepka, Cameron Young, Hideki Matsuyama
Koepka, a five-time major champion, thrives on the big stage and brings an edge that's hard to match. Young, one of the game's rising stars, has the firepower to contend, while Matsuyama's elegant swing and quiet intensity make him a dark horse. Expect fireworks.
4. Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele
Three major champions with contrasting styles. Thomas is all grit and creativity, Morikawa is the iron-wielding tactician, and Schauffele is the steady contender who always seems to lurk near the top. This is a masterclass in shot-making.
5. Dustin Johnson, Tony Finau, Patrick Cantlay
Johnson, a two-time major winner, brings his effortless power. Finau, the fan favorite with a booming drive and a warm smile, is always a threat. Cantlay, the methodical strategist, rounds out a group that balances flair with discipline.
6. Max Homa, Tom Kim, Shane Lowry
Homa's charisma and social media savvy make him a crowd magnet. Kim, the young South Korean sensation, plays with infectious energy. Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, adds grit and experience. This group will have the gallery buzzing.
7. Will Zalatoris, Sahith Theegala, Joaquin Niemann
Zalatoris, still chasing his first major after near-misses, is all heart. Theegala's unorthodox creativity and Niemann's smooth rhythm make for a fascinating contrast. Watch for sparks.
8. Matt Fitzpatrick, Brian Harman, Tommy Fleetwood
Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champ, is a precision machine. Harman, the gritty lefty, thrives on underdog energy. Fleetwood, one of the most popular players on tour, has the talent to steal the show.
9. Sam Burns, Sungjae Im, Corey Conners
Burns has the game to go low, Im is a relentless grinder, and Conners is one of the best ball-strikers in the field. This group could quietly surge up the leaderboard.
10. Rickie Fowler, Justin Rose, Adam Scott
A nostalgic trio of fan favorites. Fowler's resurgence, Rose's Olympic gold pedigree, and Scott's timeless swing make this a walk down memory lane—with plenty of competitive fire left.
Whether you're tuning in from the couch or sneaking a peek at the office, these groups are your must-watch tickets to the 2026 PGA Championship. Grab your gear, settle in, and enjoy the show.