Get ready, golf fans! The American Express is back, and it's shaping up to be an absolute spectacle! This year's tournament promises to be one for the books, with a star-studded lineup and exciting storylines. Let's dive into what you need to know about this prestigious PGA TOUR event.
A Field of Champions: The 2026 American Express boasts a seriously impressive field. Major champions, top-ranked players, and some of the biggest names in golf are heading to the Coachella Valley. We're talking serious talent here!
Key Players to Watch:
- Scottie Scheffler: The world's No. 1 player and reigning Player of the Year is making his season debut. Remember that Christmastime ravioli incident that delayed his start? Well, he's ready to tee off now!
- Will Zalatoris: After battling injuries, Zalatoris is returning to the PGA TOUR, making his first appearance since the PGA Championship in May. We're all eager to see him back in action.
- Event Debutants: Keep an eye out for major champions Matt Fitzpatrick and Adam Scott, along with world No. 18 Ludvig Åberg. Fresh faces always add an extra layer of excitement.
- Top 10 Contenders: Russell Henley, Ben Griffin, Justin Rose, and Robert MacIntyre (who just shot a blistering 63 at the Sony Open) are all in the mix.
- Defending Champion: Sepp Straka, currently No. 12 in the OWGR, is back to defend his title. Can he break the streak? No one has gone back-to-back at this championship since Johnny Miller in 1974-75.
Beyond the Rankings: With it being a Presidents Cup year, there are also plenty of past competitors – and new hopefuls – who are teeing it up. Tony Finau, Max Homa (playing The American Express for just the second time) and Sahith Theegala are some of the Americans in the field, while Scott is one of eight Internationals teeing it up.
Here's a quick look at the highest-ranked players:
- Scottie Scheffler (World Ranking: 1)
- Russell Henley (World Ranking: 5)
- Robert MacIntyre (World Ranking: 6)
- Ben Griffin (World Ranking: 8)
- Justin Rose (World Ranking: 10)
- Harris English (World Ranking: 11)
- Sepp Straka (World Ranking: 12)
- Alex Noren (World Ranking: 13)
- Ludvig Åberg (World Ranking: 18)
- Matt Fitzpatrick (World Ranking: 22)
Sponsor Exemptions:
- Blades Brown: This Korn Ferry Tour player is attempting a whirlwind trip to make it to the TOUR event after playing in The Bahamas. Talk about dedication!
- Harry Higgs: Returning for his fourth American Express, Higgs has made the cut in his last three appearances, with his best finish being T18 in 2024.
- Zach Johnson: A veteran of the game, Johnson is teeing it up for the 16th time.
- Camilo Villegas: After a strong showing last year, Villegas is back, hoping to replicate his T7 finish.
Signature Event Storylines:
The American Express is a key event for earning points towards the Aon Swing 5, which determines spots in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Patrick Rodgers currently leads the pack, followed by Lee Hodges and Davis Riley. Jake Knapp, Pierceson Coody, SH Kim, Kevin Roy, and Sudarshan Yellamaraju are also in contention.
What's at Stake? The winner of The American Express will receive 500 FedExCup points – a significant boost in the season standings.
The Courses: The tournament will be played across three courses:
- Pete Dye Stadium Course: 7,210 yards, par 72
- La Quinta Country Club: 7,060 yards, par 72
- Nicklaus Tournament Course: 7,147 yards, par 72
Players will rotate across these venues from Thursday to Saturday, with a cut after 54 holes. The final round will be held at the Pete Dye Stadium Course. The American Express is known for its low scores, with an average winning total of 26-under over the last seven years. The desert landscape and player-friendly conditions contribute to the exciting, high-scoring nature of the event.
Course Records:
- 72-Hole Record: 259, Nick Dunlap (2024)
- 18-Hole Record: 59, David Duval (Round 5, 1999 at PGA WEST/Palmer), Adam Hadwin (Round 3, 2017 at La Quinta CC); Stadium Course record: 61, Patrick Cantlay (Round 4, 2021); Nicklaus Tournament record: 61, Will Zalatoris (Round 2, 2022), Sam Burns (Round 2, 2024)
Last Year's Recap: Sepp Straka's impressive performance, including a 2-under Sunday round, secured his victory in 2025. He held off Justin Thomas, who finished as runner-up, with Justin Lower and Jason Day tying for third. It was a thrilling finish!
So, what do you think? Will Scheffler dominate in his return? Can Straka defend his title? Who are your dark horse picks for this year's American Express? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you!
