The 2025 Hero World Challenge at Albany

A Thrilling Finale in the Bahamas

The 2025 Hero World Challenge, hosted by Tiger Woods at the luxurious Albany Golf Club in the Bahamas, once again delivered high drama and world-class golf. This exclusive invitational, featuring only 20 of the world’s top players, is renowned for its intimate format, star-studded field, and relaxed yet competitive atmosphere. Despite its unofficial PGA Tour status, the event has become a prestigious year-end showcase with a $1 million winner’s prize.

Matsuyama’s Masterclass

Hideki Matsuyama, making his first appearance at the event in seven years, produced a final-round 64 to finish at 22-under par. His flawless play forced a playoff with Sweden’s Alex Noren, who had drained a clutch birdie on the 72nd hole to tie. On the first extra hole, Matsuyama stuck his approach tight and rolled in a near tap-in birdie to seal victory.

This win marks Matsuyama’s second Hero World Challenge title, joining an elite group of multiple-time winners that includes Tiger Woods, Davis Love III, and Graeme McDowell.

The Field and Storylines

• Scottie Scheffler, world No. 1 and two-time defending champion, aimed for a historic three-peat but finished tied for fourth at 20-under.

• Sepp Straka, the 54-hole leader, slipped to third after a final-round 71.

• The field included six major champions and representatives from eight countries, underscoring the global appeal of this boutique event.

Albany: A Golfer’s Paradise

The Albany course, designed by Ernie Els, is a 600-acre luxury resort that blends championship golf with Caribbean beauty. Beyond the fairways, the resort boasts villas, a marina, and even a recording studio frequented by celebrities. The setting adds to the Hero World Challenge’s reputation as golf’s most glamorous offseason stop.

Why This Event Matters

Though not an official PGA Tour event, the Hero World Challenge offers:

• Elite competition in a small-field format.

• Generous payouts rivaling full-field tournaments.

• A chance for Tiger Woods to host and shape golf’s narrative, even while sidelined from play.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 edition proved why the Hero World Challenge is more than just an exhibition. With Hideki Matsuyama’s clutch performance, Alex Noren’s resilience, and Scottie Scheffler’s pursuit of history, Albany once again delivered a memorable finale to the golf season.

For fans, it was a reminder that golf’s drama doesn’t end with the majors—it continues in the Bahamas, where the year’s last swing can be just as thrilling.