Signature Events are a relatively new concept on the PGA Tour, and Smylie Kaufman has been discussing the elevated tournaments in his latest podcast episode.
Eight Signature Events are present on the PGA Tour schedule, with more FedEx Cup points and increased purses available to a reduced field.
As a result, elite players are given a significant advantage over regular PGA Tour professionals. Recently, Billy Horschel claimed Signature Event fields should be larger to increase interest.
Former tour professional Trip Isenhour also claimed signature events need to be changed. Now, Kaufman has spoken about the issue.
Smylie Kaufman reacts to PGA Tour points standings
Speaking on the latest edition of the Smylie Show, Kaufman admitted his shock at the points awarded during a Signature Events compared to open tournaments.
“I was just so blown away at the points distribution list comparing a signature event and an open event,” said Kaufman. “Let’s go past the ones that are 300-point weeks, the opposite field events. You basically finish the 30th that week. You might as well get a lunch box on your way out because you weren’t getting any points. It surprised me.”
Kaufman also admitted his surprise at the current FedEx Cup standings. “I would’ve expected it to be much tighter in that top 50, and the only thing I can think of as the reason is that Scottie Scheffler just gobbled up all the points,” he added. “I think all the guys are like Scottie you just keep winning as it’s keeping the points all in one place.”
PGA Tour signature events have safeguarded the elite players
Signature Events, for the most part, are good for the game. The elite players consistently participate and draw attention to the PGA Tour.
Yet, for those who are desperately trying to safeguard their PGA Tour future, the elevated events are a problem. The increased points and prize money mean the elite names who are performing relatively poorly can still keep their tour card and rack up FedEx Cup points.
Perhaps Horschel’s suggestion is the right one. Increasing the field and giving lesser-known players the chance to compete could be the route forward. A regular PGA Tour pro winning a signature event would prove career-changing and precisely what the tour is all about.
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