Golf is a sport that has been around for centuries, and it continues to grow in popularity. As such, it has become a sport with many professional tournaments across the globe. But there are four major tournaments in golf that stand out from the rest—the Masters, U.S. Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. Let’s take a closer look at each of these prestigious events to better understand why they are considered the pinnacle of golfing excellence. Learn What Are the Majors in Golf?
What Are the Majors in Golf?
The Masters Tournament
The Masters is held annually in April at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. It is arguably the most famous golf tournament of all as it has been played since 1934 and was one of golf’s first major championships. This tournament features a select field of invitees; only players who have won certain tournaments or achieved certain rankings can participate in this event. It also offers one of the largest purses in professional golf with $11 million on offer for this year’s winner.
The U.S. Open Championship
The U.S Open is held every June and is hosted by different courses all across the country each year. This tournament was established in 1895 and is open to qualified players from any professional tour worldwide as well as amateurs with low handicaps or those who have won qualifying rounds for their local amateur club championships. It usually has a purse of around $12 million up for grabs for its winner.
The Open Championship
Also known as The British Open, The Open Championship is one of Britain’s oldest sporting events having first been played way back in 1860! It is held annually during July at various locations around Great Britain and Ireland such as Prestwick Golf Club, Royal Birkdale Golf Club, St Andrews Links, Royal Liverpool Golf Club among others; although it moves around regularly so no two years are ever quite the same! Players must qualify through international events or they may receive an invitation directly from The R&A (Royal & Ancient) should they meet certain criteria such as winning other major tournaments or achieving certain world rankings points totals throughout their career thus far . This tournament usually offers around $10 million dollars to its champion at stake each year .
PGA Championship
Established in 1916 , The PGA championship stands out from other majors due to its invitation-only format . Only professionals who have achieved a minimum number of points based on their performance over several years can be invited to play . Unlike other majors which move between different courses , this event has stuck firmly with its home course , Bellerive Country Club , since 1991 . With its $11 million dollar purse ,it offers almost equal payouts compared to other majors .
Conclusion
Golfers dream of competing in any one of these four major championships but not all will get an opportunity to do so due their exclusive selection process and invitation-only formats – but those that do will find themselves playing amongst some of the best players in the world on some spectacular courses while competing for large cash prizes too! These four major events represent some of golf’s highest honors – only those who prove themselves worthy get an opportunity to compete! Plus, they provide an incredible platform which encourages more people to take up this great game and follow their dreams!