Imagine the thrill of finally getting that long-awaited invitation to a prestigious golf event, especially after battling through some of life's toughest challenges—and doing it side by side with your father, the man who first introduced you to the sport. That's the heartwarming story unfolding for Gary Woodland at the PNC Championship, a tale of perseverance, family bonds, and renewed joy in the game. But here's where it gets controversial: is this exclusive 'major-champion only' event fair to other talented players, or does it rightfully honor golf's elite legacies? Let's dive in and explore what makes this year's tournament so special.
Gary Woodland, a beloved figure on the PGA Tour known for his resilience and inspiring journey, recently earned his spot in the 2025 PNC Championship by virtue of his 2019 U.S. Open victory at Pebble Beach—the only major title in his career and the key to qualifying for this unique team event. For those new to golf's world championships, the PNC Championship is an annual 'challenge season' showcase held at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, where major winners team up with family members for a heartwarming blend of competition and camaraderie. Woodland had been patiently waiting for five long years, dreaming of this moment, and he wasn't alone in his anticipation.
'We've chatted about it for ages. Getting that call felt fantastic,' Woodland shared, reflecting on the excitement of finally heading to Orlando, Florida, to compete with his father, Dan. 'This event stands out as truly remarkable. Since it's reserved for major champions, I knew my 2019 win paved the way for a potential invite. From a health perspective, this is our first real chance to make it happen. It was a relief to receive that call and confirm we could go for it.'
To give you a clearer picture for beginners, the PNC Championship isn't just any tournament—it's a year-end celebration where pairs of major winners and their chosen family members play together, often highlighting golf's family-friendly side. You can catch the action with details on the full field, format, and TV schedules right here. But here's the part most people miss: this invitation arrives at a pivotal time for Woodland, who faced a brain tumor diagnosis in 2023 and has been managing ongoing symptoms post-surgery. Returning to professional golf after such a scare was already a triumph, but sharing the course with his dad—who sparked his passion for the game—feels like a deep breath of fresh air after a stormy period.
'My entire outlook on life has shifted dramatically. Honestly, I think I took my time on Tour for granted. After 17 seasons out here, you start assuming it'll always be part of your routine,' Woodland admitted. 'Yet, it's been quite the odyssey. I'm still pushing through, fighting on. For example, my comeback tournament after surgery was the Sony Open, and just the Saturday before, my mom called to tell me Dad had been diagnosed with cancer. My poor mom has endured more than either of us, juggling our struggles. Fortunately, Dad rang the bell for being cancer-free nearly a year ago, and I'm on the mend too. This week offers a profound sense of perspective for both of us.'
The Woodlands might face their biggest hurdle this week in managing high expectations, as Dan confessed that the news of teaming up with his son brought a wave of competitive nerves. 'Truth be told, I don't play much these days. Gary reached out about a month or six weeks back, and I can assure you, I've swung at more golf balls in that time than in the past 25 years combined,' Dan chuckled. 'It paints a clear picture. I dedicate a lot of my time to my grandkids nowadays, but who could pass up an opportunity like this? It's absolutely incredible.'
And this is the part most people miss: while the PNC Championship celebrates golf's champions and their loved ones, it raises questions about inclusivity. Is it right to limit this event to major winners only, potentially overlooking other deserving players who've contributed immensely to the sport? Some might argue it preserves tradition, rewarding pinnacle achievements, but others could see it as an exclusive club that sidelines rising stars or those who excel in team play. What do you think—does this format honor the game's history, or should golf events like this open doors wider to foster more diversity and inspiration? Share your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own take on making golf more accessible to all!
