DeChambeau dream target for PGA's Sydney return

Source: smh.com.au

TL;DR

• NSW secures the Australian PGA Championship at The Lakes Golf Club for November 26-29, 2026, first time in 25 years.
• Officials target top-50 players like two-time US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau, whose team has shown interest.
• Event boosts Sydney's golf profile, visitor economy, and homegrown stars' return amid rising international appeal.

The story at a glance

NSW has brought the Australian PGA Championship to The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney for the first time since 1998, after Royal Queensland's Olympic preparations opened the door. PGA of Australia officials, including chief executive Gavin Kirkman and chair Ian Baker-Finch, are chasing big names like Bryson DeChambeau during Masters talks. The move comes now with increased prizemoney, DP World Tour co-sanctioning, and strong agent interest in Australian events.

Key points

• The Lakes Golf Club, near Sydney Airport, hosts November 26-29, 2026; nearly 100-year-old course with recent upgrades, past home to three PGAs, eight Australian Opens, wins by Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Arnold Palmer.
• Deal with NSW government via Destination NSW is for one year, with extension option.
• DeChambeau, after LIV Golf Adelaide in February, tops wishlist; Baker-Finch says economics and scheduling key.
• Home stars targeted: PGA winners Cameron Smith, Adam Scott, Min Woo Lee, Elvis Smylie, plus Marc Leishman, Lucas Herbert.
• Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour's 2026/27 opener in Ryder Cup season, offering European points.
• Recent prizemoney hikes and Rory McIlroy's Australian Open commitment fuel top-50 agent buzz at Masters.

Details and context

Royal Queensland, usual PGA host, shifts focus to 2032 Brisbane Olympics renovations, freeing NSW to bid successfully.

The Lakes steps up as sole DP World Tour host, building on 2023 Australian Open co-hosting.

Kirkman notes managers approaching PGA on top players, but stresses measured economics over rushed deals.

NSW Minister Steve Kamper expects thousands of visitors, players, fans to pump local spending and global exposure.

Key quotes

“Sydney needs an international golf tournament.” – PGA of Australia chief executive Gavin Kirkman

“I would absolutely love to have Bryson DeChambeau play in the BMW Australian PGA. I think he wants to come to Australia.” – PGA of Australia chair Ian Baker-Finch

Why it matters

Sydney regains a premier golf event after losing Australian Open to Melbourne, strengthening NSW as a tournament hub. Fans get closer shot at stars like DeChambeau and Aussies such as Smith, while economy gains from visitors. Watch player commitments, especially DeChambeau, as economics and schedules firm up.