Zurich Classic Format: How It Redefined Golf’s Premier Tournament

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans has long stood as one of golf’s most distinctive events, not only for its rich history and Southern charm but for its innovative tournament format. Since adopting a unique team-based structure in 2017, the Zurich Classic has redefined what it means to host a PGA Tour event, blending competition, camaraderie, and strategy in a way few tournaments dare to attempt.

Unlike traditional stroke-play events, the Zurich Classic operates as a two-player team competition, where golfers pair up for a four-round, 72-hole tournament. This format has earned praise for its ability to showcase both individual skill and team chemistry, offering a refreshing alternative to the solo grind of most PGA Tour stops. With a purse exceeding $8 million, it remains one of the most lucrative team events on the calendar and a highlight of the early-season swing.

Why the Zurich Classic Stands Apart

The Zurich Classic’s format is more than just a novelty—it’s a strategic showcase. Teams consist of two players, and the format alternates between alternate shot (foursomes), better ball (fourball), and final-round stroke play. This rotation tests every facet of a golfer’s game: precision, patience, and adaptability under pressure.

Day one features alternate shot, where partners hit from the same ball position, alternating strokes until the ball is holed. Day two switches to better ball, allowing each player to play their own ball and using the best score on each hole. The first two rounds conclude with a cut, reducing the field to the top 35 teams (plus ties) who advance to the weekend. The final two rounds are played in stroke-play format, with all players competing individually, though team totals still determine the winner.

• Round 1 & 2: Alternate shot (Day 1) and better ball (Day 2)
• Cut: Top 35 teams (plus ties) advance after two rounds
• Rounds 3 & 4: Stroke play, with team total determining the champion

This structure encourages collaboration unlike any other event on tour. Partners must communicate under pressure, manage egos, and make real-time decisions about shot selection and risk. It’s not just about who can hit the longest drive or sink the longest putt—it’s about who can trust their partner to do the same.

The Evolution of a Modern Classic

The Zurich Classic’s team format wasn’t always the norm. Originally founded in 1938 as the New Orleans Open, the tournament had a long and storied history as a traditional 72-hole stroke-play event. It was a staple of the PGA Tour, known for its challenging TPC Louisiana layout and strong field, but it lacked a defining identity.

That changed in 2017, when tournament organizers, led by title sponsor Zurich, announced a bold shift: the Zurich Classic would become the first full-field team event on the PGA Tour in nearly 40 years. The move was met with curiosity—and some skepticism. Would fans embrace a team concept in a sport built on individual achievement? Would the players adapt, or would the format dilute the competitive fire?

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Attendance has risen, television ratings have climbed, and the event has become a must-watch on the early-season schedule. Players now eagerly await the Zurich Classic as a chance to compete alongside a partner, whether it’s a childhood friend, a Ryder Cup teammate, or a rival turned ally.

Notable winners since the format change include major champions like Cameron Smith and Jon Rahm, who have thrived in the team environment. Their success has helped legitimize the format, proving that elite golfers can adapt and excel in a team setting.

The Fan Experience: More Than Just Golf

The Zurich Classic isn’t just about the golf—it’s about the atmosphere. Held at TPC Louisiana in New Orleans, the tournament offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and high-energy competition. Fans enjoy live music, local cuisine, and interactive experiences that go beyond the traditional golf outing.

The team format enhances the fan experience, too. Spectators can follow specific duos, root for hometown favorites, or even pick their own “fantasy team.” The event’s social media presence has grown, with fans sharing behind-the-scenes moments and celebrating team chemistry online.

Local partnerships with New Orleans institutions—from Café du Monde for beignets to local breweries—create a festival-like vibe that draws both golf fans and casual visitors. It’s a rare example of a sports event that doubles as a cultural experience.

What’s Next for the Zurich Classic Format?

As the Zurich Classic continues to grow, the PGA Tour and tournament organizers are exploring ways to enhance the format even further. There’s talk of introducing a “wildcard” round or experimenting with different team sizes, though any changes will likely prioritize the core team dynamic that has made the event a success.

One thing is certain: the Zurich Classic has proven that golf doesn’t have to be a solitary pursuit to be compelling. In an era where individual sports dominate headlines, the Zurich Classic offers a refreshing reminder that teamwork can elevate competition to new heights.

For golf fans, it’s a chance to see their favorite players in a new light—collaborating, strategizing, and celebrating together. For the PGA Tour, it’s a blueprint for innovation in a sport often resistant to change. And for the city of New Orleans, it’s a tradition reimagined, rooted in history but always looking ahead.

As the Zurich Classic enters its next chapter, one thing is clear: the two-player team format is here to stay. And in golf, that’s not just a change—it’s a revolution.

For more on PGA Tour innovations and team events, visit our Sports category. To explore other unique tournament formats around the world, check out our Travel section.