The 2018 PGA Championship presented one of the most competitive major fields in recent memory, with prize money reaching new highs for professional golf. This year highlighted how consistent performance across four rounds can translate into substantial earnings for every participant.
Below is a detailed snapshot of how the purse was distributed, winner performance, and key financial outcomes that defined the tournament economics.
| Category | 2018 PGA Championship Value | 2017 PGA Championship Value | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Purse | $20,000,000 | $15,000,000 | +33.3% |
| Winner's Share | $3,600,000 | $2,700,000 | +33.3% |
| Top 10 Cut Line | Even Par or Better | +1 Over | Tougher |
| Winning Margin | 1 Stroke | Playoff | Decisive Finish |
| Total Players Making Cut | 77 | 77 | Stable |
Winner Performance and Scoring Summary
Final Round and Leaderboard Movement
Brooks Koepka closed with a level-par 70 to secure a one-shot victory, demonstrating how steady play under pressure can maximize winnings. The back-nine surge in the final round created significant separation at the top, pushing the winner's share well above previous major levels.
Career Earnings Impact for Top Finishers
Purse Distribution Beyond the Winner
Finishing positions strongly influenced career earnings, with T5 players earning enough to materially shift year-end rankings. The aggressive purse increase meant that even late cuts generated substantial returns for professionals on the cusp of the top 100.
Tournament Field and Competitive Dynamics
Top Entrants and Scoring Averages
Strong field participation ensured multiple quality scoring lines, with the winner averaging 69.8 for 72 holes. Field depth was evident through tight clusters around the median scores, highlighting how the 2018 purse supported a high level of competition.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Purse growth of 33.3% significantly increased earnings for all finishers.
- Winner share exceeded $3.6 million, setting a new benchmark for major payouts.
- Cut line at even par ensured consistency rewarded over weekend golf.
- Strong field depth produced competitive scoring averages throughout the field.
- Final-round parity and decisive margins highlighted professional resilience under pressure.
FAQ
Reader questions
How much did the winner earn at the 2018 PGA Championship?
Brooks Koepka earned $3,600,000 for his victory, reflecting the 33.3% purse increase from the prior year.
What was the total purse in 2018 compared to 2017?
The 2018 purse rose to $20,000,000 from $15,000,000 in 2017, a 33.3% jump across the board.
How many players made the cut and what was the scoring line?
Seventy-seven players advanced by finishing at even par or better, a tougher threshold than the 2017 mark of +1 over par.
What was the winning margin and final round score?
Koepka won by one stroke after shooting a level-par 70 in the final round, closing out a decisive championship performance.