PGA TOUR Launches Challenger Series to Elevate the Next Wave
The PGA Tour unveils a two-series model for 2028, introducing the PGA TOUR Challenger Series alongside the PGA TOUR Championship Series. The Challenger Series will run at least 20 events with $4M-plus purses from February to August (including about seven events during Championship Series off weeks), using a 72-hole format with a 36-hole cut and its own season-long points system. At least 20 players from the Challenger Series will be promoted to the Championship Series each year, with a fall “last chance” series for others and additional paths via multiple wins or by winning a major. Top 90 in Championship Series points retain status; relegation between series will be defined later. Eligibility follows the current exempt/conditional framework; majors do not count toward Challenger Series event totals, but points can be earned for majors if eligible. Q-School remains to grant access to Challenger Series and other pathways, and Championship Series members cannot participate in the Challenger Series.
