The Bahamas Golf Classic at Atlantis Paradise Island: A Korn Ferry Tour Opener
The 2025 Bahamas Golf Classic at Atlantis Paradise Island is set to launch the Korn Ferry Tour season, with the field finalized after the tournament’s entry deadline. Hosted at the stunning Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, the event runs from January 12-15, 2025.
This tournament marks the start of the 2025 Korn Ferry Tour schedule, featuring a 144-player field competing over four days. Uniquely, the Bahamas serves as the opening destination for the season, with two back-to-back tournaments in the region. These events deviate from the traditional Thursday-to-Sunday schedule, instead taking place from Sunday to Wednesday to accommodate the tropical setting and enhance global viewership.
Significance of the Event
The Bahamas Golf Classic is an integral part of the Korn Ferry Tour, offering players a critical early opportunity to earn points on the Road to French Lick, the season-long points race. The tournament carries a $1 million purse, with the winner earning 500 Korn Ferry Tour points. These points contribute to the goal of finishing among the top 20 players in the standings, a milestone that grants players their PGA Tour cards for the following season.
Tournament Highlights and Field Composition
The Korn Ferry Tour expanded the field size to 144 players, ensuring opportunities for all competitors with guaranteed starts. An alternate list is in place to replace any withdrawals, maintaining the competitive integrity of the event.
While the field predominantly comprises rising talents and seasoned Korn Ferry Tour players, it also serves as a platform to showcase promising golfers aiming for PGA Tour success. The highest-ranked players in this year’s field are among the top 200 in the Official World Golf Ranking.
The PGA Tour and Bahamas Connection
The Korn Ferry Tour’s season opener in the Bahamas underscores the region’s growing significance in professional golf. The picturesque islands not only offer an idyllic backdrop but also serve as a proving ground for emerging talent striving to secure their place on the PGA Tour. By hosting these tournaments, the Bahamas strengthens its ties to the golfing world, contributing to the sport’s global appeal and fostering tourism through high-profile events.
The Ocean Club Golf Course, known for its pristine fairways and challenging layout, has become synonymous with world-class competition, further cementing the Bahamas as a premier golfing destination.
As the 2025 Korn Ferry Tour tees off, the Bahamas Golf Classic at Atlantis Paradise Island promises an exciting start to the season, where rising stars begin their journey toward PGA Tour success.
Alexander Pozharskiy
Amateur golfer
