Memorial Tournament Preview 2026: Everything to Know
With the golfing calendar packed every year, the Memorial Tournament has always stood out for fans and players alike. Set in Ohio at the Muirfield Village Golf Club, this event pays tribute to the game’s legacy and brings together a field of both established names and fresh talent.
For those watching from the UK, following American golf can feel a little different because of time zones and course styles that are less familiar at home. This tournament highlights distinct challenges, from the precise touch needed on greens to the strategic layout shaped by Jack Nicklaus, a legend of the sport.
Whether you keep up with the PGA Tour or tune in for the bigger weeks, looking at who is competing, what the course demands, and the key talking points going in can add real context. If you are curious about what to expect from the 2026 Memorial Tournament, keep reading for a clear look at the field, the course, and the factors likely to influence four days at Muirfield Village.
Where Is The Memorial Tournament Held?
The Memorial Tournament is played each year at Muirfield Village Golf Club. This course is found in Dublin, Ohio, a small city in the United States, not to be confused with Ireland’s capital.
Muirfield Village takes its name from the famous Muirfield course in Scotland, one of the historic homes of golf. The course in Ohio was designed by Jack Nicklaus and first opened for play in 1974. Nicklaus, often called the “Golden Bear”, is one of golf’s most successful players and created this venue specifically for top-level competition.
The course is known for carefully shaped fairways, testing bunkers, and fast, contoured greens. Watching golf here often means seeing players plan their way around slopes and water features that are less common on many UK courses, with approach shots and short-game control taking centre stage.
When Is The Memorial Tournament?
The Memorial Tournament is part of the PGA Tour and usually takes place at the start of June every year. For the 2026 edition, the Memorial Tournament will run from the 4th to the 7th of June.
If you are watching from the UK, keep in mind that the tournament is held in Ohio, which is on Eastern Time in the United States. The first tee times typically begin in the afternoon for British viewers, with most coverage running into the evening and sometimes finishing later than standard UK golf broadcasts.
The event follows the usual format of a professional tournament: 72 holes of stroke play. After 36 holes, a cut reduces the field for the weekend. By Sunday, the final round decides the winner.
Who Won The Memorial Tournament 2025?
The 2025 Memorial Tournament champion was Scottie Scheffler, who successfully defended his title with another commanding performance at Muirfield Village.
Scheffler produced a composed and consistent display across all four rounds, separating himself from the field with elite ball-striking and trademark control under pressure. A strong closing round secured a four-shot victory, as he once again handled the demanding course conditions better than the chasing pack.
Widely regarded as one of the most complete players in the game, Scheffler’s win reinforced his dominance in top-level events and highlighted how effective his precision approach play and course management remain on difficult layouts. With recent history established, attention now turns to the size of the purse for the 2026 edition.
What Is The Prize Money For The Memorial Tournament?
The Memorial Tournament is known for offering one of the larger prize pools on the PGA Tour. For 2026, the total prize fund is projected to be around $20 million, about £15 million, based on recent increases at leading events.
The winner receives the largest share, with a first-place payout expected to be around $4 million, roughly £2.9 million. Alongside the trophy, the champion typically earns a three-year exemption on the PGA Tour, securing entries into most events for the following seasons.
Prize money tapers down through the field. Everyone who makes the cut takes home a portion of the fund, and even those finishing near the lower end after the cut usually receive several thousand dollars.
These earnings sit alongside season-long ranking points and sponsorship income, which together shape a professional’s year. With the stakes and incentives clear, attention naturally turns to the names expected to contend.
Who Are The Favourites To Win The Memorial Tournament?
The field for the 2026 Memorial Tournament has been confirmed, with many of the world’s top golfers set to compete at Muirfield Village.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler heads the betting market and is widely regarded as the player to beat following another dominant season on the PGA Tour. Joining him among the leading favourites are Rory McIlroy, Cameron Young and Xander Schauffele, all of whom have the form and pedigree to challenge for the title.
With a strong field assembled and several elite players arriving in contention, the 2026 Memorial Tournament promises to be one of the standout events of the PGA Tour calendar.
Bet on the Memorial Tournament at Bet442
At Bet442, we make it straightforward to follow the Memorial Tournament markets, from the main outright to a range of supporting options. Prices update through the week so you can see how opinions move as practice reports and early rounds unfold.
You will find options such as outright winner, each-way on the top places, finishing positions, and selected head-to-heads. In-play markets are also available once the tournament begins, allowing you to track momentum across the four rounds without needing to leave the main event page.
Everything is designed to be simple to navigate on desktop and mobile, with clear market descriptions and settlement rules. Account tools are available to help you stay in control, including deposit limits, time-outs, and reality checks.
If you choose to bet, Bet442 is licenced by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), ensuring a safe and secure betting experience. Always remember to gamble responsibly by sticking to a strict budget within your means and making use of any responsible gambling tools available.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.