FedEx St. Jude Championship Tournament History | From 1967 Westchester Classic to Memphis Playoff Powerhouse

FedEx St. Jude Championship Tournament History: The FedEx St. Jude Championship traces its roots to the original Westchester Classic, first played in 1967 at Westchester Country Club in New York. Over the years, the event evolved through many names—Buick Classic, The Barclays, Northern Trust—while remaining anchored in the PGA Tour’s strongest field and premier golf heritage.

FedEx St. Jude Championship Tournament History: The Early Days in the Northeast

Originally known as the Westchester Classic, this tournament began as a charitable pro-am at Apawamis and Westchester Country Clubs, supporting local hospitals. Memorable early champions like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Seve Ballesteros made their mark during its years in New York and New Jersey. Vijay Singh eventually set the record with four victories.

Becoming the First Playoff Event

In 2007, the tournament became the opening stage of the FedEx Cup playoffs, retaining its location in the New York metro through various courses. It served as the gateway to season-ending suspense, drawing the top 125 players first, and after 2023, the top 70. Champions in this era included Steve Stricker, Vijay Singh, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Jason Day, and more.

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Moving to Memphis & Teaming with St. Jude

Set in motion in 2021, the tournament relocated to TPC Southwind in Memphis—the hometown of FedEx and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In 2022, the name officially shifted to FedEx St. Jude Championship, reflecting its playoff status and continuing strong charity support. The partnership with St. Jude dates back to 1970, and the tournament has since raised tens of millions for the hospital.

A Stage for Elite Performers

Recent winners include Lucas Glover (2023), Will Zalatoris (2022), Tony Finau (2021), Dustin Johnson (2020), and Hideki Matsuyama (2024). Dustin Johnson holds a tournament record of 254 (−30) at TPC Southwind, and the tournament is known for dramatic finishes and stellar performances.

Why It Matters on the PGA Tour

As the first FedEx Cup playoff event, the tournament sets the tone for the postseason. With a restricted field of top-ranked players, it ignites playoff momentum. The format carries no cut, ensuring all players compete all four days—important for points and playoff positioning.

Growing Memphis Legacy

By aligning in Memphis, the tournament embraced a new community identity. TPC Southwind demands strategic play and consistent performance, making it both a symbolic and competitive venue. The charitable link to St. Jude’s also fosters a deeper fan and player connection—making the tournament more meaningful.

Get Ready for 2025’s Playoff Opener

The FedEx St. Jude Championship promises a thrilling start to the FedEx Cup Playoffs when it returns to TPC Southwind in August 2025. With its rich history—from the Westchester era to Memphis—the tournament blends tradition, elite competition, and generous charity. Prepare for unforgettable moments, major playoff implications, and a spectacle worth watching.

Experience the playoff heat and Memphis tradition—mark your calendar for August 2025 and join the action at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.

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