As we approach the end of 2025 and reflect on this year’s golf season — with Rory McIlroy completing a career major at the Masters, JJ Spaun becoming a surprise major champion at the U.S. Open, and Scottie Scheffler dominating at the PGA Championship and Open — we’re reminded of what a season it was, and Europe at Bethpage Black Winning the Ryder Cup capped off the season.
While there’s still a long way to go before the Grand Slams resume play in April, it’s worth looking ahead to the world-class venues that will host four tournaments in 2026. For fans planning to get excited about next year’s game, exploring the free bets available in the UK could be a great way to start.
Masters – Augusta National (April 6-12)
As the only major championships that do not move, the Masters and Augusta National combine to create one of the most iconic events in world sports. From famous Magnolia Lane to the historic clubhouse to picture-perfect fairways in bloom with azaleas, there is truly something magical about spring in Augusta.
Rory McIlroy will return as the defending champion and try to become the fourth player to win consecutive green jackets. With the course’s signature challenges such as Amen Corner and the par-5 13th hole awaiting you, the Masters promises to once again provide golf drama at the highest level.
PGA Championship – Aronimink Golf Club (May 11-17)
The 2026 PGA Championship will be held at Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania, marking the first time the event will be held since Gary Player won the championship in 1962. Located in West Philadelphia, this private country club has a rich history and reputation, ranking among the most challenging and prestigious courses in the world.
Tree-lined fairways, subtle elevation changes and lightning-fast greens will provide a stern test for the world’s best golfers. The 2018 BMW Championship gave us a glimpse of what was to come as Keegan Bradley lifted the trophy at 20 under par. Expect tougher challenges in May, especially if conditions improve.
U.S. Open – Shinnecock Hills, New York (June 15-21)
Few courses embody the spirit of American golf like Shinnecock Hills. One of the oldest clubs in the United States, it hosted the second U.S. Open in 1896 and will host the event for a record sixth time in 2026.
Known for its links-like layout and harsh conditions, Shinnecock is known for rewarding precision and patience. The 2018 U.S. Open, won by Brooks Koepka at +1, perfectly illustrates how demanding this course is. With its exposed fairways and swirling coastal winds, Long Island will again test the steadiest hands in June.
Open Championship – Royal Birkdale (July 13-19)
After returning to Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland this year, the Open will return to England’s northwest coast in 2026, where Royal Birkdale awaits. The Southport Links has hosted golf’s oldest major championship 10 times before, with Jordan Spieth lifting the claret flagon in 2017 after a memorable final-round duel with Matt Kuchar.
Known for its towering dunes and fair and challenging design, Royal Birkdale is widely regarded as one of the best links courses in the world. Padraig Harrington remains the only European champion – McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood and Jon Rahm are all keen to improve on that record next July.
