The History of the WGC-Mexico Championship

Introduction

The WGC-Mexico Championship was a marquee event in professional golf, established as part of the World Golf Championships (WGC) series. First played in 1999, the tournament aimed to bring together the world’s best golfers in a highly competitive setting. Over the years, it evolved into one of the most prestigious non-major events, attracting elite players from the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, Asian Tour, and other global circuits.

The tournament originally debuted as the WGC-American Express Championship, with Valderrama Golf Club in Spain hosting the inaugural event. Over time, it moved across various locations, including Doral Golf Resort in Florida, before ultimately transitioning to Club de Golf Chapultepec in Mexico City from 2017 to 2020. This shift was a landmark moment, bringing world-class golf to Latin America and expanding the global reach of the WGC series.

Understanding the Format of the WGC-Mexico Championship

The WGC-Mexico Championship followed a stroke play format, contested over 72 holes with no cut, ensuring that all invited players completed the tournament. This format emphasized consistency and elite performance, as every round played contributed to the final leaderboard.

The event featured a limited field of around 70 players, drawn from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), major tour orders of merit, and winners of prestigious international tournaments. Unlike regular PGA Tour events, the absence of a cut meant that all competitors had equal opportunity to make a Sunday charge.

With a prize fund exceeding $10 million, the tournament offered one of the richest purses in golf. The champion was awarded the prestigious Gene Sarazen Cup, a nod to one of the sport’s all-time greats.

The Legendary Courses of the WGC-Mexico Championship

Throughout its history, the tournament was staged at multiple world-class venues:

• Valderrama Golf Club, Spain (1999) – A tight, tree-lined course that tested accuracy and short game finesse.
• Doral Golf Resort, Florida (2007–2016) – Known as the “Blue Monster,” it featured water hazards and long, demanding holes.
• Club de Golf Chapultepec, Mexico City (2017–2020) – A unique, high-altitude course where thin air significantly impacted ball flight.

At Club de Golf Chapultepec, players faced an altitude of 7,800 feet, which made the ball travel farther. The tree-lined fairways demanded precision, while undulating greens made putting a crucial factor for success. This venue provided thrilling moments and strategic challenges that defined the Mexico edition of the tournament.

Unforgettable Highlights in WGC-Mexico Championship History

The WGC-Mexico Championship produced memorable moments that shaped its legacy:

• 2017 – Dustin Johnson won the first Mexico edition, reaffirming his status as the world’s No. 1 golfer.
• 2018 – Phil Mickelson staged a thrilling playoff victory over Justin Thomas, securing his first win in nearly five years.
• 2019 – Dustin Johnson dominated the event, winning his second Mexico title with a commanding lead.
• 2020 – Patrick Reed displayed remarkable composure under pressure to claim victory in the tournament’s final edition.

Recent Winners & Record Holders

🏆 Champions of the Last Decade

• 2020: Patrick Reed – 266 (-18)
• 2019: Dustin Johnson – 263 (-21)
• 2018: Phil Mickelson – 268 (-16) (Playoff win)
• 2017: Dustin Johnson – 270 (-14)

Johnson’s two victories in Mexico cemented his reputation as one of the event’s greatest champions, while Mickelson’s 2018 playoff victory remains one of the most dramatic finishes in tournament history.

Golfing Icons & Their Triumphs at the WGC-Mexico Championship

Some of the world’s greatest golfers left their mark on the WGC-Mexico Championship:

• Tiger Woods holds the tournament record with seven victories, an achievement that underscores his dominance on the global stage.
• Dustin Johnson won three titles, demonstrating his adaptability across different venues.
• Phil Mickelson’s 2018 triumph was a masterclass in resilience and shot-making, marking a significant career milestone.

Traditions & Trophies That Defined the WGC-Mexico Championship

Unlike some major championships with longstanding traditions, the WGC-Mexico Championship was defined by its high-stakes nature and world-class competition. The Gene Sarazen Cup, awarded to the winner, symbolized global excellence in golf. Each champion etched their name into the event’s distinguished history.

Record-Breaking Moments & Fascinating Facts

• Lowest winning score – Dustin Johnson (-21) in 2019.
• Most victories – Tiger Woods (7 titles).
• Phil Mickelson’s 2018 win – His first WGC title since 2009, secured in an unforgettable playoff.
• Extreme altitude – The thin air at Club de Golf Chapultepec significantly influenced shot distances, forcing players to adapt.

Why the WGC-Mexico Championship Mattered in Golf

The WGC-Mexico Championship played a crucial role in golf’s globalization. Its move to Mexico highlighted Latin America’s growing influence in the sport, providing an international stage outside the traditional golfing strongholds.

By consistently featuring the world’s top-ranked players, the tournament delivered high drama, elite competition, and unforgettable moments. Though the WGC series has evolved, the legacy of this championship remains a vital chapter in professional golf history.