Home / Sports / Golf Stars Tee Off at Cognizant Classic
Golf Stars Tee Off at Cognizant Classic
25 Feb
Summary
- Brooks Koepka returns to hometown event after LIV Golf hiatus.
- Ryan Gerard seeks Masters bid after strong start to the season.
- Gary Woodland plays through symptoms after brain lesion surgery.
The Cognizant Classic is set to feature a compelling lineup of professional golfers. Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion, makes his anticipated return to his hometown event after a three-year absence due to his involvement with LIV Golf. His participation marks his eighth start at Cognizant, with hopes of qualifying for Signature Events.
Ryan Gerard is also a notable competitor, currently seventh on the FedEx Cup points list and ranked 26th in the world. His strong season includes a runner-up finish at the Sony Open and a recent successful bid for a Masters ticket with another playoff loss in Mauritius.
Gary Woodland, a four-time PGA Tour winner, is making his 12th appearance at the Cognizant Classic. He continues to play despite ongoing symptoms following surgery in September 2023 to remove a brain lesion, earning the PGA Tour Courage Award last year.
Other notable players include Daniel Berger, a four-time PGA Tour winner with multiple top-5 finishes at Cognizant, and Shane Lowry, the 2022 runner-up from Ireland. Max Homa and Billy Horschel, both past winners, are also in the field, with Horschel returning after hip surgery.
Joe Highsmith, the surprise champion of the 2025 Cognizant Classic, will look to replicate his breakthrough performance. Will Zalatoris, who has battled significant back issues requiring multiple surgeries, is also competing, aiming to return to his former elite level.
