He may have only taken part in 3 major championships this past season, but Tiger Woods was once again recognized as the most impactful player on tour by the PGA this week.
Woods, who played only 9 rounds in 2022, was awarded a $15M bonus from the PGA Tour’s Player Impact Program which rewards members who “generate the most positive interest in the PGA Tour”.
The 46 year old hasn’t played a round competitively since failing to make the cut at the 150th Open back in July as he continues to rehab a variety of injuries. Despite his limited appearances, the selection committee still viewed his contributions as the most meaningful over the past season.
Current world number 1 Rory McIlroy earned a $12M bonus for coming in 2nd, followed by Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, and Jon Rahm in the top 5. A record 23 players earned at least $2M in bonuses from the $100M pool this season.
The Player Impact Program metrics still aren’t 100% clear to those outside of the PGA’s inner circle, however according to their original press release, it’s designed to account for several factors, including: Google search popularity, the frequency they’re mentioned across social media platforms, their Q rating, and media/broadcast exposure.
Woods is expected to make his PGA return next week at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. The invitation only tournament will be held at the Albany Golf Course and will feature some of the world’s top golfers based on world golf rankings.
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