A Unique Team Event on the PGA Tour
Introduction
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is one of the most distinctive tournaments on the PGA Tour, standing out as the only official team event in the season-long schedule. Held annually at TPC Louisiana, this tournament brings a refreshing twist to traditional stroke play events, featuring two-player teams competing in both Four-Ball (Best Ball) and Foursomes (Alternate Shot) formats.
Since adopting the team format in 2017, the Zurich Classic has gained popularity among fans and players, offering a unique mix of strategy, chemistry, and teamwork. The event also holds a special place on the calendar as a pivotal stop before the FedExCup Playoffs, often determining crucial points for qualification.
This article explores the history, format, past champions, notable traditions, and why the Zurich Classic is a must-watch event on the PGA Tour.
A Storied Legacy: The History of the Zurich Classic
Origins and Evolution
- Founded: 1938 (originally named the Crescent City Open)
- Became the Zurich Classic: 2005, when Zurich Insurance Group became the title sponsor.
- Format Change (2017): Shifted from an individual stroke play event to a two-player team competition.
- PGA Tour Recognition: Though a team event, the Zurich Classic is officially counted as a PGA Tour victory, with winning players receiving two-year tour exemptions and FedExCup points.
The shift to a team format has brought a new level of excitement to the tournament, drawing many top-ranked players who enjoy the unique challenge of competing with a teammate.
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Understanding the Format of the Zurich Classic
Competition Format
- Field Size: 80 two-player teams (160 total players)
- Four Rounds (Stroke Play Format):
- Rounds 1 & 3: Four-Ball (Best Ball) – Both players play their own ball, and the lowest score on each hole counts.
- Rounds 2 & 4: Foursomes (Alternate Shot) – Players alternate hitting shots with one ball per team.
- Cut Line: Top 33 teams and ties advance after the first two rounds.
- Playoff Format: Sudden-death playoff in Foursomes (Alternate Shot) if tied after 72 holes.
Qualification & Entry Criteria
- Top 80 PGA Tour players from the priority ranking may choose their teammate.
- Winning team receives official PGA Tour victory status.
- FedExCup points awarded (400 points per player).
- Purse: $8.6 million (winners share $2.485 million in 2024).
🏆 Recent Champions
2024: Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
- Score: 263 (-25)
- Winning Margin: Winning Margin: Victory on the first playoff hole over Chad Ramey & Martin Trainer.
- Key Highlights: McIlroy’s clutch chip-in on the 72nd hole forced a playoff, where the duo secured the win on the first extra hole.
2023 : Davis Riley & Nick Hardy
- Score: 258 (-30)
- Winning Margin: 2 strokes over Adam Hadwin & Nick Taylor.
- Key Highlights: First PGA Tour win for both players, dominant teamwork.
2022 : Patrick Cantlay & Xander Schauffele
- Score: 259 (-29)
- Winning Margin: 2 strokes over Sam Burns & Billy Horschel.
- Key Highlights: Tournament-record 59 in Four-Ball format.
2021: Marc Leishman & Cameron Smith
- Score: 268 (-20)
- Winning Margin: Playoff win over Louis Oosthuizen & Charl Schwartzel.
- Key Highlights: Smith’s second Zurich Classic win.
The Iconic Venue: TPC Louisiana
Course Overview
- Location: Avondale, Louisiana.
- Designed by: Pete Dye, with input from Steve Elkington & Kelly Gibson.
- Course Length: 7,425 yards, Par 72.
- Signature Features:
- Strategic water hazards and deep bunkers.
- Risk-reward par-5 finishing hole (18th).
- Fast, undulating greens testing putting skills.
Golfing Icons & Their Triumphs at the Zurich Classic
Most Notable Champions (Since Team Format in 2017)
- Patrick Cantlay & Xander Schauffele (2022) – A record-breaking win, featuring a team 59 in Four-Ball.
- Billy Horschel (2018 & 2013 winner) – The only player to win in both team and individual formats.
- Jon Rahm & Ryan Palmer (2019) – Secured Rahm’s third PGA Tour win before his U.S. Open triumph.
Memorable Moments
- Leishman & Smith’s Playoff Win (2021) – A dramatic alternate-shot playoff victory.
- Cantlay & Schauffele’s Record-Breaking Performance (2022) – Setting new tournament records for lowest round and total score.
Traditions & The Zurich Classic Trophy
Notable Traditions
- Champions Toast with Zurich Blue Jackets – Winners are awarded a signature Zurich Blue Jacket, similar to the Masters’ Green Jacket tradition.
- New Orleans Vibes – The event includes live jazz music, Louisiana cuisine, and Mardi Gras-style celebrations.
- Honoring Team Chemistry – This is the only PGA Tour event that fully embraces team golf.
Record-Breaking Performances & Interesting Facts
- Lowest Winning Score (Team Format): 258 (-30) – Davis Riley & Nick Hardy (2023).
- Largest Winning Margin (Team Format): 3 strokes – Billy Horschel & Scott Piercy (2018).
- Only Back-to-Back Winner (Since 2017 Team Format): None yet, but Patrick Cantlay & Xander Schauffele are strong contenders.
Why the Zurich Classic Matters in Global Golf
- The only official PGA Tour team event, offering a refreshing change from standard stroke play.
- Fosters camaraderie and strategy among top players.
- Boosts players’ chances of FedExCup qualification.
- Features an exciting mix of experienced veterans and rising stars.
Final Thoughts
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans has become a fan-favorite thanks to its team format, high-energy atmosphere, and thrilling finishes.
With elite players forming strategic partnerships, the event continues to be a must-watch tournament on the PGA Tour schedule.
