The 2025 PGA Championship is set to take place at Quail Hollow Club, one of the longest and most challenging courses on the PGA Tour. This year’s field is packed with talent, including defending champion Xander Schauffele, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, and Rory McIlroy, who is fresh off his Masters victory. Here’s a detailed look at the players to watch, from the clear favorites to the long shots hoping to make the cut.

Tier I: The Clear Favorites

Rory McIlroy McIlroy, who recently completed the career Grand Slam at the Masters, is the man to beat at Quail Hollow. With four victories at this venue, including a dominant five-stroke win in 2024, McIlroy’s power off the tee and familiarity with the course make him a top contender.

Scottie Scheffler The world No. 1 is coming off a dominant win at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, where he tied the PGA Tour’s 72-hole scoring record. Scheffler’s consistency and all-around game make him a strong favorite, even though he has limited experience at Quail Hollow.

Tier II: The Guys Who Can Win

Xander Schauffele The defending champion has been steadily regaining form after a rib injury. Schauffele’s ability to perform under pressure and his strong iron play make him a legitimate threat to repeat.

Bryson DeChambeau DeChambeau’s length off the tee (averaging 333.3 yards) and recent form, including a win in the LIV Golf League, position him as a serious contender. He nearly chased down Schauffele in last year’s PGA Championship, losing by just one stroke.

Justin Thomas The two-time PGA Championship winner ended a nearly three-year winless drought with a playoff victory at the RBC Heritage. Thomas’s accuracy with the putter and his previous success at Quail Hollow make him a player to watch.

Tier III: If Everything Goes Right

Collin Morikawa Morikawa, the 2020 PGA Championship winner, has been knocking on the door with two runner-up finishes this season. His precision with irons and ability to handle major championship pressure could see him break through.

Ludvig Åberg The young Swedish star has shown flashes of brilliance, including a win at the Genesis Invitational. However, inconsistent iron play and putting have held him back. If he finds his rhythm, Åberg could be a dark horse.

Tier IV: Hey, Miracles Happen

Rickie Fowler Fowler, who needed a special invitation to compete, has a history of success at Quail Hollow, including a playoff win at the 2012 Wells Fargo Championship. If he can recapture his best form, he could surprise the field.

Phil Mickelson At 54, Mickelson is the oldest player in the field, but his experience and past success at Quail Hollow, including a tie for fifth in 2018, make him a sentimental favorite.

Tier V: Happy to Make the Cut

This group includes aging veterans and newcomers looking to gain more access to the PGA Tour. While they’re not expected to contend, a strong performance could boost their careers.

Tier VI: Past Champions

Past PGA Championship winners like Martin Kaymer and Vijay Singh receive lifetime exemptions. While they may not be in contention, their presence adds historical significance to the event.

Tier VII: PGA of America Professionals

These club professionals earned their spots by finishing in the top 20 at the PGA Professional Championship. While unlikely to win, they bring a unique perspective and passion to the tournament.