Hero World Challenge 2025 returns to the stunning Albany Golf Course in the Bahamas from December 4–7, 2025. Hosted by Tiger Woods, this exclusive invitational tournament features only 20 elite golfers from around the world, competing for prestige, ranking points, and a hefty purse in one of the final marquee golf events of the year.
Though Tiger Woods will not tee it up this year as he continues his recovery from multiple surgeries, the competition remains fierce — highlighted by two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler, who aims to secure an unprecedented third straight title.
Event Details
- Tournament Name: Hero World Challenge 2025
- Dates: December 4–7, 2025
- Location: Albany Golf Course, Nassau, Bahamas
- Format: 72-hole stroke play (no cut)
- Field: 20 players
- Defending Champion: Scottie Scheffler
- Host: Tiger Woods
Prize Money and Format
While the Hero World Challenge is not an official PGA Tour event, it offers world ranking points and a substantial prize fund. The total purse is $4 million, with the winner expected to take home $1 million.
The event uses a four-round, no-cut format, giving every participant a chance to compete all four days. The relaxed setting and small field make it an enjoyable yet competitive year-end showcase for golf’s biggest names.
2025 Hero World Challenge Field
Below is the confirmed 20-player field for the 2025 edition, including Ryder Cup stars and major champions.
| Player | OWGR (as of Aug 25, 2025) | Country | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scottie Scheffler | 1 | USA | 2-time defending champion |
| Justin Thomas | 5 | USA | Consistent top-10 performer |
| J.J. Spaun | 7 | USA | 2025 U.S. Open Champion, debut |
| Robert MacIntyre | 9 | Scotland | 2025 Ryder Cup participant |
| Harris English | 10 | USA | Experienced in Bahamas winds |
| Keegan Bradley | 11 | USA | Team USA Ryder Cup captain |
| Justin Rose | 12 | England | 2025 Ryder Cup participant |
| Sepp Straka | 13 | Austria | European Ryder Cup member |
| Hideki Matsuyama | 16 | Japan | 2016 Hero World Challenge champion |
| Cameron Young | 20 | USA | Strong driver, first appearance since 2022 |
| Sam Burns | 22 | USA | Aggressive putter, tournament regular |
| Corey Conners | 24 | Canada | 2025 RBC Canadian Open finalist |
| Chris Gotterup | 26 | USA | 2025 Genesis Scottish Open champion |
| Wyndham Clark | 27 | USA | 2023 U.S. Open champion |
| Brian Harman | 28 | USA | Consistent performer on tour |
| Andrew Novak | 30 | USA | Tournament debut |
| Alex Noren | 31 | Sweden | European Ryder Cup vice captain |
| Akshay Bhatia | N/A | USA | Tournament invite |
| Billy Horschel | N/A | USA | Tournament invite |
| Jordan Spieth | N/A | USA | 2014 Hero World Challenge champion |
Recent News & Notes
Tiger Woods Out Again
Tournament host Tiger Woods confirmed he will not play in 2025 as he continues recovery from multiple surgeries, including a lumbar disc replacement in October. Woods, who last competed at the 2024 Masters, is expected to return in 2026.
Scheffler Chasing History
All eyes will be on Scottie Scheffler, who has dominated the Hero World Challenge the past two years. A third straight win would make him the first player ever to three-peat at this event, solidifying his status as golf’s world No. 1 and the sport’s most consistent force.
Cantlay and Schauffele Withdraw
Initially included in the field, Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele have withdrawn due to scheduling and injury issues. They have been replaced by Andrew Novak and Alex Noren, both of whom will make their Hero World Challenge debuts.
What Makes Albany Special?
Designed by Ernie Els, the Albany Golf Course is a tropical links-style layout blending elements of seaside golf and desert terrain. Known for its wide fairways, strategic bunkers, and coastal winds, it challenges players to balance aggression and precision.
The course’s stunning ocean views and resort atmosphere make it a favorite year-end stop for many pros — combining competition with a relaxed, off-season vibe.
Players to Watch
- Scottie Scheffler: Looking for his historic three-peat.
- Justin Thomas: Poised for a strong finish to 2025 after a solid season.
- Robert MacIntyre: Representing Europe’s new wave of talent.
- Jordan Spieth: Former champion returning to the Bahamas for the first time in years.
- Chris Gotterup: The young star coming off his breakthrough win at the Scottish Open.
How to Watch
Fans can catch full coverage of the 2025 Hero World Challenge on:
- Golf Channel – Live coverage and highlights
- NBC Sports – Weekend rounds
- Peacock (U.S.) – Live streaming
- Sky Sports Golf (U.K.) – Full tournament coverage
Hero World Challenge TV Broadcast Schedule (All Times Eastern)
| Day | Time (ET) | Channel |
| Thursday, Dec 4 | 1:30–4:30 p.m. | Golf Channel |
| Friday, Dec 5 | 1:30–4:30 p.m. | Golf Channel |
| Saturday, Dec 6 | 12:00–2:30 p.m. | Golf Channel |
| 2:30–5:00 p.m. | NBC | |
| Sunday, Dec 7 | 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | Golf Channel |
| 1:30–4:30 p.m. | NBC |
Hero World Challenge 2025 promises world-class golf in a luxurious setting. While the absence of Tiger Woods is felt, the star-studded field led by Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, and Jordan Spieth ensures plenty of drama and excitement.
Expect intense competition, stunning scenery, and perhaps history in the making — as Scheffler chases a third consecutive victory in the Bahamas.
