2025 Players Championship: Watch the Best Golfers Compete at TPC Sawgrass

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida — The 2025 Players Championship officially kicks off Thursday morning as the PGA Tour‘s elite golfers descend upon the iconic TPC Sawgrass. This prestigious tournament, regarded as the flagship event of the PGA Tour, takes place one month ahead of the major championship season.

Scottie Scheffler, the two-time defending champion and the world’s top-ranked golfer, is the frontrunner to win his third consecutive Players title. Despite a lackluster start to the 2025 season, Scheffler has recently shown signs of improved form. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy is hot on his heels, looking for a second victory this year after winning five weeks ago. Collin Morikawa, who narrowly missed a victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, is also a strong contender.

“Every player wants to put their name in history, and winning the Players is a major part of that,” Scheffler said at a recent press conference. “It’s an incredible feeling to return as the defending champion. I’m excited to get out there.”

Ludvig Åberg, who is currently fourth in the betting odds, will join this talented group alongside Xander Schauffele and Justin Thomas, both of whom are aiming to regain their winning momentum amidst a competitive field.

Notably absent from this year’s tournament is the legendary Tiger Woods, who announced on Tuesday that injuries will keep him from participating indefinitely. Woods’ presence is often a significant draw for fans, underscoring the event’s prestige.

The Players Championship is not only a rigorous test of skill but also offers an impressive prize pool of $25 million, with the winner receiving $4.5 million and 750 FedExCup points. This year marks the 51st anniversary of the event, and only six players in history have won it more than once.

For fans eager to follow the action, CBS Sports will provide comprehensive coverage of the tournament. Here is a breakdown of how to watch:

Round 1 Coverage (Thursday):

– Start Time: 7:30 a.m. ET

– TV Coverage: Golf Channel from 1-7 p.m. ET

– Simulcast Live Stream: NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports App

– Live Streaming: PGA Tour Live and ESPN+ from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET

As the world-class golfers tee off for the first round, fans can anticipate thrilling matchups and dynamic performances. With Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele grouped together for the initial rounds, the competition promises to be intense.

Join us in watching as skilled players navigate the challenges of one of golf’s most revered courses this week at TPC Sawgrass.