PGA Tour Considers Bracket Format for FedEx Cup Finale

Proposals include stroke play, match play, and byes to replace the criticized 'Starting Strokes' system at the Tour Championship.

The PGA Tour is exploring a major format change for the Tour Championship, including a potential bracket-style competition to crown the FedEx Cup champion.
The proposed format would combine stroke play and match play, with the top eight players in the FedEx Cup standings earning byes into the Round of 16.
Under the potential system, the bottom 22 players would compete in an 18-hole stroke play round to determine 16 match play seeds, creating added drama and competition early in the event.
The current 'Starting Strokes' format, which gives players a staggered scoring advantage based on rankings, has faced criticism for reducing competitive tension and excitement.
Key stakeholders, including players and officials, are still debating the specifics of the format, with concerns about fairness, television appeal, and maintaining the prestige of the season-ending event.