PGA Play-Offs Set to Kick Off at Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus

AYIA NAPA, Cyprus — Starting March 5 and running through March 7, the prestigious PGA Play-Offs will showcase 24 top-performing golfers vying for a coveted top-two finish. The tournament, held at the scenic Aphrodite Hills, offers players exemptions to significant events on the DP World Tour and the HotelPlanner Tour.

Each PGA region has secured spots for its top three players based on last season’s performances, leading to an intense competition. Additionally, Craig Lee and James Ruth have qualified after securing first and second places, respectively, at the PGA Professional Championship. Matty Lamb has also joined the field following his impressive victory in the PGA Assistants’ Championship last July.

Among those eager to compete is Daniel Whitby-Smith from the Midlands, who clinched the PGA Pro-Captain Challenge title in October. “This will be my third year in a row at this event, and I’ve always enjoyed coming back,” Whitby-Smith said. “The golf course is excellent. It’s very demanding, with some really tough tee shots and quick, undulating greens. I’ll need to stay patient over the three days.”

Whitby-Smith also emphasized the significance of the tournament, stating, “The chance to gain tour starts is huge. Coming second a couple of years ago gave me a taste for it, so I’m desperate to get more starts, particularly with the British Masters being on my doorstep.”

Aphrodite Hills, known as PGA National Cyprus since 2017, has served as the backdrop for the PGA Play-Offs on three occasions. The resort features a challenging 6,289-yard championship golf course that opened in 2002, nestled in the hills overlooking the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

James Ruth from MiGolf shared his excitement leading into the tournament, saying, “The event and venue are both great, and I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to be here. The course is playing great – perhaps a little softer than last year, with the greens a little slower, which is a good thing for us players.”

Philip Davies, Head of Tournaments at The PGA, expressed optimism for the event: “As ever, all those competing this week will be looking forward to tackling the superb PGA National Cyprus at Aphrodite Hills in this final running of the PGA Play-Offs. Ahead of a full national tournament schedule for 2025, there’s a great deal at stake for PGA Members, with spots available for the winner and second-place finisher at a number of prestigious events on the DP World Tour and the HotelPlanner Tour – we wish all competitors the very best of luck.”

Full details on the exemptions available this week include spots for 1st and 2nd place. For scoring updates and more information, you can follow the tournament online.