The PNC Championship remains one of golf’s most beloved end-of-year traditions - a unique celebration of family, legacy, and competitive spirit. As we look toward the 2025 edition, anticipation is high for another two days of generational golf, compelling pairings, and meaningful storylines.
What Makes the PNC Championship Special?
Originally starting as the Father/Son Challenge, the PNC Championship has evolved into a broader celebration of golfing families. Major champions - male and female - team up with a family member and compete in a relaxed yet competitive format. It’s about more than just scorecards: it’s about heritage, family bonds, and sharing the course across generations.
This blend of nostalgia, elite-level golf and genuine family moments gives the PNC a charm that few regular tour events can match.
Format, Rules & How It Works
The PNC Championship uses a two-player scramble format played over 36 holes:
• Both players tee off, then the team selects the better drive.
• From there, both players hit their next shot from that spot - and again choose the better ball.
• The process continues until the ball is holed.
• Lowest total over the 36 holes wins.
This “best-shot” style levels the playing field, allowing amateurs (family members) to hold their own alongside seasoned pros. The event rules stipulate that the non-pro partner must not hold any professional tour status, reinforcing the family-oriented and inclusive nature of the tournament.
Recent Champions: Last 5 Winners
2024 - Bernhard Langer & Jason Langer
2023 - Bernhard Langer & Jason Langer
2022 - Vijay Singh & Qass Singh
2021 - John Daly & John Daly II
2020 - Justin Thomas & Mike Thomas
In 2024, the Langers clinched the title after a dramatic playoff over the father-son pairing that captivated many - Tiger and Charlie Woods. Their victory further cemented Bernhard Langer’s legacy as arguably the greatest PNC competitor of all time.
Tiger & Charlie Woods - 2024 Recap + 2025 Absence
One of the most talked-about storylines heading into the 2025 PNC Championship was whether Tiger and Charlie Woods would return. In 2024, the duo came agonisingly close: they finished as runners-up after a hard-fought playoff against the Langers. Their performance - especially in the final round - reminded fans just how potent the father-son pairing can be, even given Tiger’s long history of injury struggles.
Sadly for fans, the 2025 edition will see them absent. Tiger has undergone a lumbar disc replacement - his latest back operation - and despite hope of a return, he recently confirmed he and Charlie will not compete in this year’s PNC Championship. Describing the decision as one made out of fairness - both to Charlie and to other teams - Tiger explained that his rehab still leaves him far from competitive condition.
So, while the fairways of Orlando will miss the Woods presence, their 2024 run remains among the most memorable in recent editions - and a reminder of just how much emotion and narrative the PNC can deliver.
Who to Watch in 2025 - Big Names, Big Comebacks & Fresh Faces
Even without Tiger and Charlie, the 2025 field remains compelling. Early entries and likely contenders include:
• Defending champs Bernhard & Jason Langer - the team to beat.
• Lee Trevino & Daniel Trevino - continuing Lee’s unmatched legacy at the event.
• Padraig & Paddy Harrington, David & Brady Duval - experienced, steady pairings.
• Annika Sörenstam & Will McGee - combining elite talent and fresh energy.
• Matt & Cameron Kuchar, Steve & Izzi Stricker - reliable, crowd-pleasing duos.
• Nelly Korda & Petr Korda - a pairing with strong ongoing potential.
• Gary Woodland - back in the fold after health struggles, bringing one of the most inspirational stories of 2025.
The door is open for any of these pairings to step up - which could make 2025 one of the most unpredictable and exciting PNC Championships in recent memory.
Bring the PNC Spirit Home - Recreate the Magic with The Experience Golf
One of the reasons the PNC Championship resonates is because its format makes it deeply accessible, social yet competitive - and full of fun. At The Experience Golf, we believe that golf is more than competition: it’s about connection, family, and shared memories.
Whether you’re a serious golfer or just in it for fun, recreating the PNC mindset can turn an ordinary round into something special. Find out more about our annual Father and Son Tournament here.
