Zurich Classic Returns to New Orleans with Star-Studded Field and Unique Format
By The Bayou Insider Staff
Golf fans across Louisiana and beyond have their eyes on Avondale this week as the 2025 Zurich Classic of New Orleans tees off at TPC Louisiana, running April 24–27. As the only official team event on the PGA Tour, this tournament delivers a blend of Southern hospitality, competitive firepower, and one-of-a-kind format that continues to attract some of the biggest names in the sport.
A Format Unlike Any Other
The Zurich Classic shakes up the traditional golf experience by pairing 80 two-man teams into a four-day competition alternating between Fourball (best ball) and Foursomes (alternate shot) formats.
Thursday & Saturday (Rounds 1 & 3): Fourball – Each player plays their own ball, and the team’s best score on each hole is counted.
Friday & Sunday (Rounds 2 & 4): Foursomes – Teammates alternate shots with one ball per hole.
After the first two rounds, the field is cut to the top 33 teams and ties, making for an intense race to the weekend.
In the event of a tie after 72 holes, a sudden-death playoff alternates between the two formats.
Prize Money & Stakes
This year’s purse totals $9.2 million, with each member of the winning team taking home $1,329,400 and 400 FedExCup points. Winners also earn:
A two-year PGA Tour exemption
Invitations to The Players Championship, PGA Championship, and Sentry Tournament of Champions
Star Power on Display
This year’s field features some of golf’s brightest stars and most intriguing pairings:
Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry: The defending champions are back, bringing their chemistry and firepower after a thrilling playoff win in 2024.
Matt & Alex Fitzpatrick: The English brothers bring a sibling bond and steady play.
Collin Morikawa & Kurt Kitayama: A strong pairing of consistent ball-strikers.
Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge: Horschel, a two-time Zurich winner, returns with a new partner.
Wyndham Clark & Taylor Moore: Rising stars with plenty to prove.
Nicolai & Rasmus Højgaard: The Danish twins are always a fan favorite.
Each team blends strategy, synergy, and nerves of steel — critical ingredients for handling the alternating formats and pressure-packed leaderboard.
Defending the Crown
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry’s return is one of the biggest storylines of the week. After clinching the 2024 title in dramatic fashion, they’re back to defend their crown and build on their growing partnership that began after the Ryder Cup. McIlroy, fresh off completing the career Grand Slam at The Masters, adds extra buzz to the Bayou this week.
When & Where to Watch
Television Coverage:
Golf Channel: Live coverage begins at 3:00 p.m. ET Thursday and Friday.
CBS: Weekend broadcast coverage.
Streaming:
ESPN+: Morning groups begin at 7:30 a.m. ET for all four rounds.
On-Site:
Gates open at 6:30 a.m. daily at TPC Louisiana in Avondale.
Louisiana Flair Meets Global Talent
The Zurich Classic is more than just a golf tournament — it’s a celebration of Louisiana culture. With local food vendors, live music, and vibrant fan engagement, the event showcases the best of New Orleans while spotlighting world-class athletic competition.
From the tee box to the crawfish boil, the Zurich Classic continues to be a major stop on the PGA Tour calendar — and a major point of pride for Louisiana sports fans.
For real-time scoring, tee times, and more, visit ZurichGolfClassic.com or follow PGATour.com for full leaderboard coverage.
