Preview: Scheffler Eyes Three-Peat at 2025 Hero World Challenge
Tiger Woods hosts the elite 20-man field in the Bahamas as Scottie Scheffler aims to defend his title against Rory McIlroy and other top stars.
The golf world turns its eyes to the Bahamas this week as Tiger Woods hosts the 2025 Hero World Challenge at Albany. While an unofficial event on the PGA Tour schedule, the tournament consistently draws one of the strongest fields of the year, and this edition is no exception.
Scheffler Defends Title
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler returns to Albany looking for a "three-peat". The two-time defending champion has been the dominant force in men's golf throughout 2025, capturing two major championships and the FedEx Cup. His precision iron play and comfort on the windswept Albany layout make him the clear favorite once again.
The Field
The 20-man field features the cream of the crop from the Official World Golf Ranking. Notable entrants include:
- Rory McIlroy: Fresh off his historic career Grand Slam completion at The Masters earlier this year.
- Justin Thomas: Showing a resurgence in form late in the season.
- Jordan Spieth: Always a threat on creative shot-making courses like Albany.
- Ludvig Åberg: The Swedish sensation making his second appearance.
Tiger's Role
Host Tiger Woods is on site and, while his playing schedule remains limited, his presence always electrifies the event. Reports suggest he has been practicing and may test his game against the elite field, though his primary role remains as tournament host.
Presidents Cup Preview?
With the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah less than a year away, this week serves as an early look at potential pairings and form for Team USA. Captain Brandt Snedeker will undoubtedly be watching closely as the core of his potential team competes head-to-head.
Tournament Details
- Dates: December 4-7, 2025
- Course: Albany, Bahamas
- Purse: $5 Million
- Defending Champion: Scottie Scheffler
Action gets underway Thursday, with strong winds forecast to challenge the world's best.
Related Articles
Sepp Straka Takes Lead at 2025 Hero World Challenge with Dominant Third Round
Austrian Sepp Straka fires a bogey-free 64 with two eagles to take the lead at 17-under par, one shot ahead of defending champion Scottie Scheffler heading into the final round.
Scottie Scheffler's 2024 Season: How The World's Best Player Prepared for Presidents Cup at Royal Montreal
An in-depth analysis of Scottie Scheffler's remarkable 2024 season and how his dominance on the PGA Tour translated to Presidents Cup team competition. From his historic wins to Olympic gold, discover how the world #1 prepared for Royal Montreal.
2026 Presidents Cup Preview: Medinah Prepares for International Team Golf
An early look at the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah Country Club. We preview the venue, analyze both teams' prospects under captains Brandt Snedeker and Geoff Ogilvy, and project what promises to be another showcase of elite golf.