The FedExCup Playoffs begin August 7–10 with the FedEx St. Jude Championship at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee. As the first of three playoff events, this tournament sets the tone for who will make a run toward the season-ending finale.

And with $20 million on the line and 2,000 FedExCup points up for grabs, the competition promises to be fierce.

Event Details at a Glance

  • Dates: August 7–10, 2025
  • Location: TPC Southwind – Memphis, TN
  • Purse: $20,000,000
  • Winner’s Share: $3,600,000
  • FedExCup Points to Winner: 2,000
  • Defending Champion: Hideki Matsuyama

TPC Southwind isn’t the longest track on Tour, but it demands precision. Narrow fairways, dense rough, and water hazards on nearly half the holes make ball control a must. A few missed shots here can turn a good round into a scramble.

Why This Event Matters

The FedEx St. Jude Championship isn’t just a big payday, but also a high-stakes pressure test. With only the top 70 players in the standings making the field, every swing counts. There’s no cut, but there’s also no room for error.

Expect intensity from the first round as players try to secure their spot in the top 50 for a ticket to the BMW Championship.

And if history is any guide, fireworks are coming.

Hideki Matsuyama surged to victory last year with a composed final round, holding off a crowded leaderboard. Past winners like Tony Finau and Justin Thomas have also thrived here thanks to their short game under pressure.

Players to Watch in Memphis

  • Hideki Matsuyama – Back to defend his 2024 win with sharp iron play and playoff poise.
  • Rory McIlroy – A fan favorite with power off the tee and strong playoff history.
  • Scottie Scheffler – Consistent, confident, and always in the mix down the stretch.
  • Xander Schauffele – Quietly dangerous when the stakes rise.
  • Jordan Spieth – A crowd favorite who’s had success at Southwind before.

Don’t count out newcomers either. With the FedExCup on the line, rising stars tend to play loose and fearless.

Fan Experience in Memphis

TPC Southwind delivers one of the most engaging playoff atmospheres on the calendar.

  • Fans can expect packed viewing areas around the water-heavy finishing holes.
  • On-site activations, local food vendors, and live music give it a festival feel.
  • Memphis hospitality always shows up with southern charm, real BBQ, and a passionate crowd.

For anyone attending in person, keep an eye on the par-3 11th and the par-4 18th. Both can swing a leaderboard in minutes.

Shawn’s Take

As someone who’s walked these fairways and felt the pressure of playoff season, I can tell you, this week is all about resilience. Players have to manage expectations, stay patient, and pick smart targets. TPC Southwind rewards thoughtful strategy and punishes emotional play.

It’s one of my favorite playoff venues because it doesn’t hand out low scores. You’ve got to earn them.

More About Shawn Costello

Shawn Costello is a PGA Master Professional and currently serves as General Manager and COO at Coldstream Country Club in Cincinnati, Ohio. With expertise in leadership, coaching, and player development, Shawn is passionate about shaping the next generation of professionals in the industry.