The PGA Championship returns this week, and the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. As the first round tees off Thursday, here's everything you need to know about one of golf's most anticipated majors.

The course itself is a classic test: Aronimink stretches to 7,394 yards and plays to a par of 70. With a prize fund to be announced Saturday—last year's event boasted $19 million, with $3.24 million going to the champion—the stakes are sky-high.

The field is nothing short of spectacular. Ninety-seven of the top 100 players in the world ranking are here, making it arguably the strongest field in major championship history. The only absences are Jake Knapp (thumb injury), Lucas Herbert, and Shaun Norris, who slipped into the top 100 after the field was set.

All eyes are on Rory McIlroy, but not just for his game. The four-time major champion dealt with a blister under the nail of his right pinkie toe, limiting him to just three holes Tuesday. After nine holes Wednesday and some clever padding with a wider shoe, McIlroy declared himself fit. He's also chasing the calendar Grand Slam after winning the Masters—the second leg of a potential historic run.

Jordan Spieth is on a similar quest. A win here would complete his career Grand Slam, a feat only five others have achieved. The narrative writes itself: two of the game's biggest stars, both chasing immortality, sharing the same fairways.

Aronimink has a rich history with past winners including Keegan Bradley (2018 BMW Championship), Nick Watney (2011 AT&T National), Justin Rose (2010 AT&T National), and Gary Player (1962 PGA Championship). That legacy adds an extra layer of prestige to this week's battle.

Here's a stat that might surprise you: Americans have won the last 10 PGA Championships, the longest active streak among all majors. And if you're looking for a trend, the last nine champions have all won multiple majors—so expect a superstar to lift the trophy.

Thursday's key tee times are packed with star power. Scottie Scheffler, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Justin Rose go off at 2:05 p.m., while the marquee group of Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, and Jon Rahm starts at 8:40 a.m. Bryson DeChambeau, Ludvig Aberg, and Rickie Fowler follow at 8:29 a.m.

For viewers, coverage begins Thursday and Friday on ESPN+ from 7 a.m. to noon, switching to ESPN from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, tune into ESPN+ from 8 to 10 a.m., then ESPN until 1 p.m., with CBS and Paramount+ taking over from 1 to 7 p.m. It's going to be a weekend you won't want to miss.