Golf’s 2024 season is almost over, with just a handful of PGA Tour events remaining on the calendar. Japan’s ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP at the end of October and The RSM Classic on Saint Simons Island are the pick of the events, with the former offering up a purse of $8.5m and the latter a similarly impressive $8m. But it’s safe to say that the curtain has somewhat come down on the links’ marquee events this year.
Throughout the campaign, the sport’s biggest names flexed their muscles once again, while new faces rose to the occasion. But which players have shone brighter than others throughout 2024? Let’s find out who tops the money list.
Scottie Scheffler
Scottie Scheffler had an extraordinary 2024, solidifying his status as the finest player on the planet in his current form. He has been the top earner throughout 2024, racking up a whopping $29,228,357 throughout the campaign.
His year has been highlighted by a series of remarkable victories, starting with the Arnold Palmer Invitational in March, where his composed play and strategic brilliance led him to a commanding win. A mighty final round of six under par ensured that he finished five strokes clear of compatriot Wyndham Clark, with IReland’s Shane Lowry one shot further back.
Scheffler continued his dominance at THE PLAYERS Championship just days later in perhaps the most thrilling event of the year. He had another blistering final round, firing a scintillating eight under par to arrive out of nowhere and claim the championship at the iconic TPC at Sawgrass. He finished just one shot clear of the American trio of Xander Schauffele, Brian Harman and the aforementioned Clark who all finished on nine under par, tied for second place.
The crowning achievement of the 28-year-old New Jersey native year came at the Masters, where he donned the coveted green jacket for a second time after yet another thrilling final round. The American headed into Championship Sunday with a one-stroke lead and his ability to maintain his composure in high-stakes situations was on full display as he charged towards the title. He finished the final day four under par to secure the Augusta victory, finishing five strokes ahead of Sweden’s Ludvig Åberg.
Such was his dominance throughout the campaign, that the latest golf betting odds for next year’s majors make Scheffler an imperious-looking favorite in all four competitions. He’s a +500 betting favorite at not just the Masters, but also the PGA Championship and the US Open. Meanwhile, he’s also a +550 favorite to claim the Claret Jug at the Open Championship as well.
Xander Schauffele
Xander Schauffele was the aforementioned SCheffler’s biggest rival on the tour throughout 2024, and he comes in second place on the money list after racking up $18,355,910 throughout the year. The highlight of his campaign came in the final major of the year, winning the Open Championship at the Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland. He followed the blueprint set by his compatriot by embarking upon a stellar final day, ultimately hunting down and overtaking home favorite Justin Rose by shooting six under par on the final day to finish two strokes clear of the Brit.
His performance at the FedEx St. Jude Championship was another testament to his consistency, attempting another final-day chase but ultimately falling short. Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama led by a massive margin heading into the final day of action, but he could only score a par for the course, while Schauffele shot a blistering seven under par. Ultimately it wasn’t enough, however, with the Japanese star emerging victorious by just two shots.
Hideki Matsuyama
Speaking of Matsuyama, he too had an impressive 2024 season filled with plenty of achievements that earned him a total of $11,237,611, good enough for a distant third place on the money list. His victory at The Genesis Invitational was a masterclass in precision and patience, with the Japanese sensation outplaying a competitive field en route to victory. He too managed to secure the victory throughout the fourth and final round, shooting a mighty nine under to beat a whole host of American challengers to the prize.
His win at the FedEx St. Jude Championship was a masterclass in building an early lead. He was 11 strokes clear of the rest ahead of the final round, allowing him to shoot a par 72 to claim the victory, despite the charging Schauffele. Despite his impressive performances, he never truly threatened in the majors, with his best performance being sixth place at the US Open.
He ultimately finished four shots adrift of eventual champion Bryson DeChambeau, and his dream of a first major championship since triumphing at the 2021 Masters remains a distant dream. He remains the Rest of the World’s best bet at claiming a major in 2025 after Americans claimed all four majors this year for the first time since 1982.
Upcoming Stars
As the current season wraps up, attention turns to promising newcomers on the tour. Players like Sam Burns and Tom Kim are making headlines with impressive showings. Burns, in particular, has shown flashes of brilliance, securing several top-five finishes and proving he can compete against the elite.
Tom Kim has also made waves, charming fans with his charisma and skill. His ability to perform under pressure sets him apart from typical rookies. These young players could shake up the rankings in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The conclusion of the 2024 season sets the stage for an exciting year ahead. With many players gearing up for next year’s majors, fans can expect fierce competition. Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Hideki Matsuyama will likely remain at the forefront, but emerging talents may disrupt the established order.
The quest for dominance continues, and golf enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding drama of the next season. The golf world remains abuzz with anticipation for fresh rivalries and unforgettable moments that the 2025 season promises to deliver.