The 2025 Zurich Classic of New Orleans tees off Thursday, April 24, at TPC Louisiana, marking the PGA Tour’s only official team event. Eighty two-man teams will compete over four rounds, alternating between fourball (best ball) and foursomes (alternate shot) formats. The top 33 teams after Friday’s cut will advance to the weekend rounds.
Defending Champions: McIlroy & Lowry
Fresh off his Masters victory, Rory McIlroy returns alongside Shane Lowry to defend their 2024 Zurich Classic title. Their camaraderie and prior success make them the favorites, with odds at +360.
Other Notable Pairings
Collin Morikawa & Kurt Kitayama: A formidable duo with odds at 14-1.
Matt & Alex Fitzpatrick: The English brothers bring strong chemistry to the field.
Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge: Horschel, a past Zurich Classic winner, teams up with Hoge for a promising partnership.
Adam Hadwin & Nick Taylor: The Canadian pair aims for their third consecutive top-10 finish at this event.
Schedule & Format
Rounds 1 & 3 (Thursday & Saturday): Fourball (best ball) format.
Rounds 2 & 4 (Friday & Sunday): Foursomes (alternate shot) format.
Playoff (if necessary): Alternates between fourball and foursomes.
How to Watch
TV Coverage: Sky Sports Golf and talkSPORT 2.
Streaming: Available via PGA Tour Live and ESPN+.
Prize & FedExCup Points
Winning Team: Each player earns $1,329,400 and 400 FedExCup points.
Final Thoughts
The Zurich Classic offers a unique team dynamic on the PGA Tour, blending strategy and camaraderie. With top-tier pairings and the added pressure of team play, fans can expect an exciting tournament filled with memorable moments.
Top Contenders
Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry (+350)
Fresh off his Masters victory, McIlroy reunites with Lowry to defend their 2024 Zurich Classic title. Their chemistry and recent form make them the favorites to win.
Collin Morikawa & Kurt Kitayama (+1400)
This duo combines Morikawa’s major-winning experience with Kitayama’s rising talent, positioning them as strong contenders.
J.T. Poston & Keith Mitchell (+1600)
Both players are in excellent form, with recent top finishes, making them a team to watch closely.
Sleeper Picks
Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge (+2200)
Horschel’s past success at TPC Louisiana and Hoge’s consistent play make this pair a potential surprise package.
Adam Hadwin & Nick Taylor (+2800)
The Canadian duo seeks their third consecutive top-10 finish at this event, bringing experience and synergy.
Justin Lower & Chad Ramey (+6600)
After a runner-up finish last year, this team returns with momentum and could be a dark horse.
Final Thoughts
While McIlroy and Lowry are the favorites, the Zurich Classic’s team format often leads to unexpected outcomes. Keep an eye on both the top contenders and sleeper picks as the tournament unfolds.