The wait is over. The 2025 PGA Championship is officially underway, and over the next four days, golf fans around the world will witness some of the finest talent in the sport compete on one of the United States’ most storied courses — the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Starting Thursday, the 72-hole showdown features 99 of the top 100 golfers in the world, all vying for the prestigious Wanamaker Trophy in what promises to be a thrilling second major of the year. While early-week weather raised concerns, the skies have cleared just in time, setting up a smooth start for Round 1.

Crowds, Cheers, and Championship Dreams

Quail Hollow is buzzing with anticipation as thousands of fans pour in to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars. The spotlight is firmly fixed on three key contenders: Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Bryson DeChambeau. Each brings a compelling narrative to the tournament.

McIlroy, fresh off the completion of his long-awaited career grand slam, is aiming to clinch back-to-back majors — a feat that would elevate his legacy to even greater heights. Meanwhile, Scheffler, who has been dominant at Augusta, is chasing his first major title beyond the Masters. And then there’s DeChambeau, whose recent resurgence in major tournaments has reignited the debate: Can he win big outside the U.S. Open?

As per FanDuel, both McIlroy and Scheffler enter as joint favorites at 5-1 odds, with DeChambeau closely trailing at 8-1.

A Sentimental Favorite Returns: Justin Thomas at Home

Among the other favorites lies a name that brings back memories for fans at Quail Hollow — Justin Thomas. The 2017 PGA Champion returns to the very course where he first hoisted the Wanamaker Trophy. Riding a wave of confidence with his best form in years, Thomas is not just playing for the title — he’s playing for history, hoping to recapture the magic from eight years ago.

Star-Studded Tee Times: A Thursday to Remember

If you’re overwhelmed trying to decide whom to watch, you’re not alone — but don’t worry, CBS Sports has made it easier. The opening day promises a buffet of elite golf, with marquee groups like Scheffler, McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele all teeing off in a primetime slot. This isn’t just a round — it’s a statement.

Live coverage will span from early morning to evening. ESPN+ kicks off streaming at 7 a.m. ET with featured holes (16-18) starting at 7:45 a.m., followed by featured groups from 8 a.m. The main TV broadcast begins at 12 p.m. and runs till 7 p.m. on ESPN and fubo.

More Than Just a Major: It’s Golf’s Theatre of Dreams

Beyond the numbers, predictions, and pairings, the PGA Championship always delivers the intangible — moments that define careers, heartbreaks that fuel comebacks, and shots that live on in highlight reels forever. For the players, it's a chance at immortality. For fans, it’s four days of pure sporting drama.

So whether you're tuning in for McIlroy’s majestic drives, Scheffler’s surgical iron play, or DeChambeau’s raw power, this is the week to clear your calendar.

Because Quail Hollow isn’t just hosting a tournament — it’s welcoming legends.