The PGA TOUR’s THE PLAYERS Championship officially kicks off golf’s 2020 Season of Championships, six months of the most significant tournaments on the PGA TOUR schedule.
Reigning 2019 FedExCup champion and PGA TOUR Player of the Year, Rory McIlroy, will return to THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass to defend his title in Ponte Vedra Beach, just a short drive from Tampa.
After winning his 82nd PGA TOUR victory at the ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP in October – which tied the late Sam Snead’s all-time wins record – Tiger Woods will be at THE PLAYERS 2020, in search of his 83rd victory as well as his third PLAYERS title (currently Jack Nicklaus is the only player with three PLAYERS titles).
Several new additions of note for the 2020 event include the installation of express lanes at the tournament entries to provide a quicker entry process for all fans, as well as the move to mobile-only for all tickets, including day-specific Stadium Pass tickets.
Notable improvements from the 2019 event include amplified WIFI at tournament entries and throughout the course to ensure optimum connection, an enhanced video wall experience on the practice grounds with Top Tracer technology and a reconfigured “Welcome Experience” – which includes an open-air bar and a replica of the 17th hole for fans to attempt their own shot at the world-famous island green.
Also new in 2020, THE PLAYERS has collaborated with Grammy award-winning artist The Chainsmokers for the Military Appreciation Day Concert on Tuesday, March 10.
A Tuesday ticket to THE PLAYERS will allow fans to attend that day’s practice rounds as well as the concert that evening, which begins at 5 p.m. Fans interested in attending the concert are encouraged to arrive at the course by early afternoon.
For people planning to attend, here are some other last minute travel tips:
Where to stay
Of course there are hotels available but depending on your travel party, renting a home right on property might be worth the splurge. Many of the homes surrounding TPC Sawgrass are available to rent. The home TBBW stayed in had every imaginable amenity available, including a fire pit and a pool. The best part is the proximity, with the entrance to the tournament in walking distance from many of the homes.
Even if you are a little farther away than you’d want to walk, you’ll notice a lot of bikes and golf carts parked at the entrance, another way people get around the property. If possible, bring your bikes. It’s a beautiful property to explore.
What to do
Take some time out of the golf festivities to check out the local area.
Right on property at The Marriott Resort Sawgrass is The Sawgrass Spa. Indulge in a massage or a facial. It’s an amazing way to start the day before heading out to watch the tournament.
In addition, it’s a short drive to the beach and St. Augustine, where you can tour some of Florida’s early historical landmarks.
Splurge on THE PLAYERS Club
Sip champagne, feast on lobster and watch the tournament in a luxurious setting, away from the crowds and the heat.
The TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse was reimagined as THE PLAYERS Club to offer an ultra-VIP experience to appeal to a select group who share a passion for the sport and an appreciation for the most elite hospitality setting, unlike any other in the world of sports and entertainment.
Weekly access to THE PLAYERS CLUB provides a private viewing space on the #17 Tee and #18 Green, Tuesday through Sunday, valet parking and exclusive access to the TPC Sawgrass Pro Shop, featuring premium brands and unique items available only in this location, and only during tournament week. A $500 VIP shopping experience is provided, per ticket, within the TPC Sawgrass Pro Shop.
Access to the club will run you about $6,000. Get more information at theplayers.com. ♦
TYPES OF MEMBERSHIP
Types of Memberships include the following. For pricing information, please call Jennifer Belisario, TPC Sawgrass Membership Director, at 904-280-2412.
Master Golf Membership: Master Golf members enjoy complimentary green fees on both courses at TPC Sawgrass (THE PLAYERS Stadium Course and Dye’s Valley) plus priority starting tee time reservations. In addition to guest privileges and dining specials, members receive access to over 100 courses worldwide with the TPC Passport Program.
Corporate Membership: The Corporate Membership allows access to play and entertain guests at TPC Sawgrass, TPC Network facilities and partner properties in addition to the benefit of accessing TPC Sawgrass’ 77,000 square foot Clubhouse.
Dye’s Valley Membership: This membership allows members to play the Dye’s Valley course year-round for a cart fee. Dye’s Valley members also receive a 20 percent discount on full retail merchandise and in the NINETEEN and traditions dining spaces within the clubhouse. There are no monthly dues or food & beverage minimums.
Social Club Membership: Social Club members receive a $150 credit towards food and beverage purchases as well as members-only pricing on a la carte dining, wine by the bottle and Golf Shop purchases.
