Everything You Need to Know About the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson
The CJ Cup Byron Nelson is returning to TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, from May 2-5, 2024. This PGA Tour event, steeped in history and named after the legendary golfer Byron Nelson, promises to be a highlight for golf enthusiasts. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
The tournament will host 156 players competing in a 72-hole stroke play format. Players will be organized into threesomes for the first two rounds, playing one round in the morning and another in the afternoon wave. After the first 36 holes, the field will be narrowed down to the top 65 players and ties, according to PGA Tour cut rules.
For the final two rounds, pairings will be rearranged based on the players’ scores, with those having the highest scores starting first. The player with the lowest total score after all four rounds will claim victory, earning a substantial winner’s share from the $9.5 million purse, a two-season exemption on the PGA Tour, and 500 FedEx Cup points.
In case of a tie after the regular rounds, a sudden-death playoff will ensue, following the order of holes 18, 18, 10, and then 18 again, until a winner emerges.
TPC Craig Ranch, known for its challenging layout, features a par of 71 and stretches over 7,414 yards. The course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, is characterized by its bentgrass greens and zoysiagrass fairways, with a total of 83 bunkers and several water hazards adding to the difficulty.
The tournament has a rich legacy dating back to its first edition in 1944, with multiple venues hosting it over the years. It has been played at TPC Craig Ranch since 2021. Notable past winners include legends like Sam Snead, Ben Hogan, and more recently, Jason Day, who is the defending champion from 2023.
Golf fans can catch live action on television with broadcasts scheduled across ESPN+ and Golf Channel, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the tournament from start to finish.
Players to watch include the defending champion Jason Day, who aims for back-to-back titles. The course setup, especially the strategic par 4s and the risk-reward par 5s, will likely play a significant role in determining the winner.
The 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson offers not just a test of skill and strategy for the players but also a rich historical context and exciting golf for fans. With its challenging course and competitive field, the tournament is set to be a pivotal event in the golfing calendar, leading up to the PGA Championship. Whether attending in person or watching from home, this event is sure to deliver top-tier golf entertainment.