The Zurich Classic of New Orleans continues to stand out on the PGA Tour calendar, not just for its unique team format but also for its increasingly lucrative purse. In 2026, the tournament offers a massive payout structure that rewards both teamwork and elite performance across four rounds of alternating formats.

At the top, the winning duo takes home a staggering $2,745,500 as a team, which breaks down to $1,372,750 per player. That figure puts the Zurich Classic in line with some of the more prominent individual events on tour, despite its collaborative format. It’s a significant incentive for top-tier players to pair up and chase a different kind of glory in New Orleans.

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Full Payout Structure: Depth Matters

Here is a look at the complete breakdown of the 2026 Zurich Classic purse, per Golf Digest:1st: $2,745,500 team ($1,372,750 individual)

2nd: $1,121,000 ($560,500)

3rd: $733,875 ($366,937)

4th: $617,500 ($308,750)

5th: $536,750 ($268,375)

6th: $460,750 ($230,375)

7th: $384,750 (192,375)

8th: $337,250 ($168,625)

9th: $299,250 ($149,625)

10th: $261,250 ($130,625)

11th: $223,250 ($111,625)

12th: $190,475 ($95,237)

13th: $159,790 ($79,895)

14th: $143,450 ($71,725)

15th: $132,050 ($66,025)

16th: $120,650 ($60,325)

17th: $109,725 ($54,862)

18th: $100,225 ($50,112)

19th: $91,200 ($45,600)

20th: $83,600 ($41,800)

21st: $76,000 ($38,000)

22nd: $68,400 ($34,200)

23rd: $60,800 ($30,400)

24th: $53,580 ($26,790)

25th: $48,640 ($24,320)

26th: $46,170 ($23,085)

27th: $44,160 ($22,230)

28th: $43,510 ($21,755)

29th: $42,750 ($21,375)

30th: $41,990 ($20,995)

31st: $41,230 ($20,615)

32nd: $40,470 ($20,235)

33rd: $39,710 ($19,855)

34th: $38,950 ($19,475)

35th: $38,190 ($19,095)

36th: $37,430 ($18,715)

37th: $36,670 ($18,335)

38th: $35,910 ($17,995)

39th: $35,150 ($17,575)

40th: $34,390 ($17,195)

41st: $33,630 ($16,815)

42nd: $32,870 ($16,435)

43rd: $32,110 ($16,055)

44th: $31,350 ($15,675)

45th: $30,590 ($15,295)

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Why the Zurich Classic Purse Stands Out

Unlike traditional stroke-play events, the Zurich Classic features alternating rounds of four-ball and foursomes. This format introduces volatility, making consistent performance across both styles critical. The purse structure reflects that challenge, rewarding teams that can adapt and thrive under different conditions.

Additionally, the split payout system highlights the collaborative nature of the event. Each player earns an equal share, which emphasizes partnership over individual dominance. In an era where individual accolades dominate golf, this event provides a refreshing shift, both competitively and financially.

Another key factor is how the purse compares to other mid-season events. With nearly $2.75 million going to the winning team, the Zurich Classic rivals elevated events in terms of winner compensation. That has helped attract stronger fields in recent years, including Ryder Cup-caliber pairings and established stars looking to capitalize on both chemistry and prize money.

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What’s Next on the PGA Tour Schedule

Following the Zurich Classic, the PGA Tour schedule shifts back to individual competition with the Cadillac Championship (April 29-May 3) at Trump National Doral in Miami, Florida and the Truist Championship (May 6-10) at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina. In South Carolina, the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic at Dunes Golf and Beach Club will be played May 7-10.

After that, all eyes turn to the PGA Championship (May 11-17) at , one of golf’s four majors and a defining moment in the season.

Beyond the PGA Tour, there’s also an exciting debut on the horizon at the developmental level. The Colonial Life Charity Classic will make its inaugural appearance from May 14-17, at the scenic Woodcreek Club in Columbia, South Carolina. As part of the Korn Ferry Tour, the event is expected to draw rising stars, dedicated fans, and key partners from across the region.

More than 300 volunteers are set to support the event, highlighting its strong local foundation and the enthusiasm surrounding its debut. Economically, it’s also poised to bring meaningful benefits to the Columbia area, adding another layer of importance beyond the fairways.

The primary beneficiary of the event is United Way of the Midlands, which focuses on breaking cycles of poverty through initiatives in health, education, and financial stability. Programs like Homeless No More, Resilient Midlands, and Read United aim to provide housing access, literacy support, and job readiness – making the tournament a platform for measurable, long-term change in the community.