Scheffler, Matsuyama Lead Hero World Challenge. Woods' Status Unclear.
The 2026 Hero World Challenge, scheduled for December 3-6 at Albany in the Bahamas, has announced 17 players, with three exemptions still to be named for the 20-man field.
Hero World Challenge Field Takes Shape
The 2026 Hero World Challenge, hosted by Tiger Woods, is scheduled from December 3–6 at Albany in the Bahamas. The invitational tournament has confirmed 17 players for its 20-man field, with three additional exemptions yet to be announced. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and defending champion Hideki Matsuyama headline the initial entries.
Seven of the current top 10 players globally are included in the confirmed list, which also features Players Championship winner Cameron Young and Matt Fitzpatrick, who has secured three PGA Tour victories this year alongside a recent DP World Tour Open de France title.
Uncertainty Surrounds Tiger Woods' Participation
Despite hosting the event, Tiger Woods' participation as a player remains unconfirmed. The 15-time major champion has not competed in an official PGA Tour event since The Open at Royal Troon in July 2024. Historically, Woods has utilised this 72-hole, no-cut tournament as a platform for competitive returns following injuries.
However, his potential 2026 comeback was complicated by a vehicle incident in Jupiter Island, Florida, on March 27, which authorities reported involved hydrocodone pills and signs of impairment. Following the incident, Woods spent time in a Swiss rehabilitation facility and subsequently lost his driving license for five years after a plea deal. There is currently no indication that he will take one of the three remaining spots in the field.
Scheffler and Matsuyama Eye Third Albany Title
Both Scottie Scheffler and Hideki Matsuyama arrive at Albany with the opportunity to become the first three-time winners of the Hero World Challenge. Scheffler previously claimed back-to-back victories in 2023 and 2024. Matsuyama secured his first title in 2016 and added a second last year, defeating Alex Noren in a playoff during the 2025 edition.
The diverse field also includes 11 players from the 2026 Presidents Cup teams and three debutants: Si Woo Kim, Ryan Gerard, and Jacob Bridgeman. Collectively, the confirmed entrants represent six countries and boast an impressive record of 106 Tour victories and 11 major championship wins.
Asian Talent in the Bahamas Spotlight
The inclusion of prominent Asian players such as defending champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan and Si Woo Kim of South Korea ensures strong regional interest in the Hero World Challenge. Their presence in this elite invitational event provides Asian golf fans with key figures to follow as the tournament unfolds in the Bahamas.
Matsuyama's quest for a record third title at Albany will be a significant storyline for viewers across Asia. The tournament will be broadcast from December 3-6, with Golf Channel covering all four rounds and NBC providing coverage for the third and final rounds. UK audiences can watch via Sky Sports Golf.
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