The 108th PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club marks a historic return to Philadelphia for the first time since 1962, launching the city’s major sports celebrations surrounding America’s 250th anniversary. Named after Philadelphia businessman Lewis Rodman Wanamaker, the championship blends golf tradition with modern power and technology. Championship week runs May 11–17, 2026, with competitive rounds from May 14–17. The field includes 156 players and is expected to generate more than $130 million in economic impact.

Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner restored Donald Ross’s original vision, transforming Aronimink into one of the most demanding strategic tests in major championship golf. The par-70 layout stretches to 7,394 yards and now features 180 “Ross Cluster” bunkers, thick 3.25-inch rough, and massive bentgrass greens with severe internal slopes. Precision is mandatory. Missing the correct section of the green can send balls rolling 30 yards into collection areas, while overly aggressive wedge shots may spin back dramatically, especially on the par-4 11th.

The field features every top-50 player in the OWGR. Scottie Scheffler enters as defending champion and remains the game’s most reliable ball-striker, while Rory McIlroy arrives after winning the Masters and chasing the “True Grand Slam,” despite dealing with a toe blister. Cameron Young’s high-launch ball flight and rollback-conforming golf ball could suit Aronimink perfectly, while Ludvig Åberg enters with elite spring ball-striking numbers. Brooks Koepka’s strength from thick rough makes him dangerous, and Jordan Spieth’s creativity on Ross greens keeps him relevant. Jake Knapp withdrew with a thumb injury, allowing Tom Hoge into the field.

Weather may become a major factor. Thursday forecasts call for early showers, 90% humidity, and light shifting winds. Softer greens could help aggressive iron players attack pins, but wet rough increases “mud ball” risks and unpredictable ball flights. If conditions remain soft, longer hitters gain an advantage.

Broadcast coverage reaches nearly one billion households. ESPN, CBS, Paramount+, and ESPN+ provide wall-to-wall coverage, including featured groups, featured holes, launch monitor analysis, and live range coverage using 5G technology.

Victory at Aronimink will require patience, spin control, and psychological endurance, especially over the brutal closing stretch from holes 15–18. The 546-yard par-4 15th may become one of the defining holes of the championship, while the water-guarded 17th demands precise high-launch iron play. Whether the week belongs to Scheffler, McIlroy, or a breakthrough contender, Aronimink is built to expose every weakness.

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