PGA Tour Faces Backlash Over Proposed Field Size Reductions

The PGA Tour's plan to cut field sizes and membership in 2026 aims to address pace of play issues but has sparked controversy among fans and players.

The proposed changes would reduce maximum field sizes from 156 to 144 players, with some events limited to 120 players based on daylight considerations.
Exempt status for PGA Tour members would be reduced to the top 100 in FedEx Cup standings, down from the current top 125.
The number of Korn Ferry Tour graduates earning PGA Tour cards would decrease from 30 to 20, affecting opportunities for up-and-coming players.
Monday Qualifiers, which offer a chance for lesser-known players to compete, would be reduced or eliminated for events with fewer than 144 players.
Critics argue that the changes favor top players and diminish opportunities for lower-ranked and emerging golfers, while failing to adequately address slow play.