PGA Tour proposed changes approved in bid to make action 'more enjoyable to follow'

The PGA Tour policy board has approved some proposals ahead of the 2026 season (Image: Getty)

The PGA Tour policy board has approved proposals for smaller field sizes and fewer fully exempt players, starting with the 2026 season.

The number of fully exempt players will change from 125 to 100, with the number available via the second-tier Korn Ferry Tour dropping from 30 to 20.

Ten players will still earn full cards from the DP World Tour money list, as the likes of Rasmus Hojgaard, Paul Waring, Matteo Manassero and Tom McKibbin did on Sunday.

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With fewer exempt players, the Tour claims the pace of play will improve and reduce the number of times rounds are not completed on schedule.

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The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass will go from 144 to 120 players, while several 156-player fields will be reduced to either 144 or 132 players, typically depending on available daylight.

"These field size adjustments, which also promote a better flow of play, improve the chances of rounds being completed each day with a greater ability to make the 36-hole cut on schedule under normal weather conditions," Tyler Dennis, the Tour's chief competitions officer, said.

"For our fans, this certainty sets up weekend storylines much more effectively and will make the PGA Tour easier and more enjoyable to follow."

For events with smaller fields, there will be a reduction in weekly Monday qualifiers, from four to two at 132-player events and to zero at 120-player events.

PGA Tour proposed changes approved in bid to make action 'more enjoyable to follow'

PGA Tour proposed changes approved in bid to make action 'more enjoyable to follow'

PGA Tour proposed changes approved in bid to make action 'more enjoyable to follow'

PGA Tour proposed changes approved in bid to make action 'more enjoyable to follow'

PGA Tour proposed changes approved in bid to make action 'more enjoyable to follow'