2021 PGA Championship at a Glance
The 2021 PGA Championship was the 103rd edition of golf’s oldest major, held at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina. It offered a premium test of ball-striking and course management on the Ocean Course. This profile explains the format, venue, field, and how Patrick Reed claimed his second major. Below you’ll find verified details on dates, prize money, and outcomes useful for years of reference.
Dates and Venue
When and where it was played
The 2021 PGA Championship took place May 20–23, 2021, at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, South Carolina. Held in late May, it was the second major of the season and continued the tournament’s long tradition of premier golf venues in the United States.
Format and field
How the event was structured
Like other major championships, the PGA Championship used a standard 72-hole stroke play format over four days. Entry included recent major winners, top-ranked OWGR leaders, tour winners, and qualifiers. The field size is typically 156 players, with a cut after 36 holes and a 36-hole finale on the weekend.
Notable entries and field strength
Key players and pre-event expectations
Heading into the 2021 event, several major winners and top-ranked golfers were featured. The field combined veterans with contenders in a mix that historically produces competitive, high-level play through all four rounds.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | May 20–23, 2021 | Official schedule |
| Venue | Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Ocean Course | Championship venue |
| Location | Kiawah Island, South Carolina, USA | Official site |
| Purse (2021) | $20,000,000 | Official PGA of America purse |
| Winner’s Share | $3,600,000 | Official PGA of America payout |
| Winner | Patrick Reed | Championship results |
Champion and performance
How Patrick Reed closed out the week
Patrick Reed won his second major championship at the 2021 PGA Championship. Known for meticulous preparation and competitive temperament, Reed navigated a tough field with steady scoring. His victory marked a career highlight and added to his reputation as one of golf’s premier closers.
Key rounds and turning points
The week included strong early-round scoring, resilient midweek play, and a decisive final round where Reed maintained composure under pressure. Scoring conditions and strategic course management were decisive factors over the 72 holes.
Purse and prize money breakdown
Financial details and distribution
The 2021 PGA Championship featured a $20 million purse, one of the largest in golf. The winner’s share was set at $3.6 million, with the remainder distributed across the field according to PGA of America payout formulas. This structure ensures competitive fields while rewarding deep runs.
- Winner: $3,600,000
- Runner-up: ~$2,160,000
- Third place: ~$1,400,000
- Top 10 and notable cuts receive tiered payouts down the field
Course difficulty and conditions
Ocean Course setup and scoring
Weather, firm conditions, and routing factors
The Ocean Course is known for firm fairways, subtle undulations, and strategic routing. Weather in late May at Kiawah Island is typically favorable but can include breezy conditions along the coast. Course setup balances playability with penal characteristics, rewarding precise shot-making and disciplined strategy.
Historical context and legacy
Where the 2021 event fits in PGA Championship history
The PGA Championship has evolved in format, venue selection, and purse size over more than a century. The 2021 edition continued the event’s modern tradition of major-level competition, prestige, and global golf viewership.
Quick facts comparison
2021 at a glance versus other recent majors
The table below compares key attributes across multiple recent majors to highlight consistency in format and purse growth in modern golf.
| Attribute | PGA Championship 2021 | Typical major benchmark | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purse | $20,000,000 | $15M–$20M range for modern majors | Official announcements |
| Winner’s share | $3,600,000 | ~18% of total purse | Payout schedules |
| Venue type | Ocean Course (links-style) | Links, parkland, or hybrid | Championship venue |
| Dates | Mid-to-late May | Spring major window | Official schedule |
| Format | 72-hole stroke play | Standard major format | Championship rules |
Media and fan considerations
Broadcast, attendance, and experience
Coverage included television and streaming options, with in-depth leaderboard analysis. Attendance policies can vary year to year based on health and safety guidance; fans should verify current policies before travel. Plan for typical coastal weather and arrive early for popular sessions.
On-site tips for attendees
Navigating the venue and enjoying the week
If attending, arrive well before tee times, review bag policies, and check course map and transportation details. Bring sun and wind protection, comfortable footwear, and stay updated on daily schedules through official channels to optimize your experience.
Key takeaways
- 2021 PGA Championship winner: Patrick Reed
- Event dates: May 20–23, 2021
- Venue: Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Ocean Course
- Purse: $20,000,000; winner share: $3,600,000
- Format: 72-hole stroke play major
Evergreen notes
Major championship details such as format, purse levels, winner information, and venue characteristics retain long-term value for fans, analysts, and media. The information above is designed to remain relevant for understanding future seasons and comparing modern majors.