The BMW Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world of golf. More than just another PGA TOUR event, it is a pivotal stage of the FedExCup Playoffs, where the stakes are sky-high. Every August, the event gathers the very best players in the world—without a cut system and without a second chance. The champion must rise above all over just four decisive days.
In 2025, the BMW Championship returns to Caves Valley Golf Club, Owings Mills, Maryland—a venue that hosted a memorable edition in 2021. This year promises another week of thrilling competition, new challenges, and dramatic scoring battles.
What Makes 2025 Special
Several factors make this year’s championship stand out
1. Return to Caves Valley – Following the thrilling and fan-favorite 2021 edition, the PGA TOUR has brought the event back to this world-class course.
2. Course Renovations – Narrower fairways, new bunkers, and faster greens after major renovations in 2023 mean players face a far more challenging setup this time.
3. Record Prize Fund – $20 million in total prize money, with $3.6 million for the winner.
4. Elite Player Field – A mix of proven legends and emerging young stars.
Dates and Format
Dates: August 14–17, 2025
Format: 72-hole stroke play
Cut: None (all 50 players compete across four rounds)
FedExCup Status: Second leg of the three-event playoffs
Course Analysis – Caves Valley Golf Club
Caves Valley Golf Club is a private course designed by Tom Fazio, renowned for its strategic layout. After a major renovation in 2023, it has become even more demanding.
Key Features
Par: 71
Length: ~7,500 yards
Fairways: Tight, requiring precise tee shots
Greens: Fast, sloping, and unpredictable
Hazards: Strategically placed bunkers and water challenges
Back in 2021, the winning score reached -27, but this year’s tougher setup might prevent such low numbers.
Round One Highlights
The story of Day One was Robert MacIntyre’s brilliant performance.
Score: 8-under 62
Strengths: Long, confident putts and accurate drives
Despite a two-hour rain delay, he maintained focus and attacked the course with precision, taking a three-shot lead.
Scottie Scheffler – The World No. 1 is quietly positioning himself near the top, staying steady and patient.
Rory McIlroy – The Masters champion, always a threat on big stages, is keeping himself within striking distance.
Key Contenders – Player Profiles
1. Robert MacIntyre
Country: Scotland
Strengths: Aggressive play, strong putting
Weaknesses: Occasional inconsistency off the tee
2. Scottie Scheffler
Country: USA
Strengths: Consistency, mental toughness
Record: Current FedExCup points leader
3. Rory McIlroy
Country: Northern Ireland
Strengths: Driving distance, experience in high-pressure situations
Goal: Another FedExCup title run
4. Ludvig Åberg
Country: Sweden
Strengths: Solid iron play, rising star status
5. Sam Burns
Country: USA
Strengths: Exceptional putting, calm under pressure
TV and Online Coverage
Friday: Golf Channel – 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Saturday: Golf Channel – 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, NBC/Peacock – 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Sunday: Golf Channel – 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, NBC/Peacock – 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Streaming: ESPN+ with morning featured group coverage and early round action.
Final Predictions
Based on current form and course conditions:
Favorite: Scottie Scheffler – unmatched consistency and mental strength
Dark Horse: Robert MacIntyre – could shock the field if his aggressive game holds up
Wild Card: Rory McIlroy – experience and big-stage brilliance
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