Hero World Challenge announces field with 17 players confirmed

Organizers have announced the initial field for the 2026 Hero World Challenge, scheduled for December 3-6 in Albany, Bahamas. Seventeen of the twenty available spots are currently confirmed, including seven of the world’s top 10 players. The lineup features world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who is seeking a third consecutive win, alongside Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas, Matt Fitzpatrick, Russell Henley, Chris Gotterup, and Sam Burns. Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama is also among the confirmed participants.

Significant uncertainty remains regarding the participation of host Tiger Woods. While three exemptions are yet to be announced, Woods has not been officially included in the initial list. His competitive return is a major point of interest following a period of physical setbacks, including a ruptured left Achilles tendon in March 2025 and lumbar disc replacement surgery in October 2025. His last official tournament appearance was at the 2024 Open Championship. Recent footage has shown Woods hitting shots during an exhibition, but it remains unclear if he will compete in the four-round event.