McIlroy, Rahm push for longer major season to boost golf globally 2026

Golf fans may have blinked and missed it: the major championship season is over in just 14 weeks, and stars like Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm are pushing for a longer, more global schedule to boost the sport. The current condensed calendar—four majors between April and July—leaves little room for buildup or international expansion, sparking debate among players and officials alike.

Why the major season feels too short

With the Masters in April, the PGA Championship in May, the U.S. Open in June, and The Open in July, the entire major slate wraps up by midsummer. This leaves an eight-and-a-half-month gap until the next major, which some argue hurts momentum and global interest. Jon Rahm noted that three of four majors are held in the United States, limiting the sport’s worldwide reach.

Rahm’s vision for international majors

“I think it would be good for golf,” Rahm said, suggesting a major in Australia, Europe, or Asia could succeed. He pointed to the NFL’s international games as a model. “Having two in Europe would also be good fun. The same in Asia.” The Open remains the only non-U.S. major, though a future stop at Portmarnock in Ireland is planned.

Comparing major schedules: current vs. proposed

Key takeaways from the major season debate

• A longer major season could build anticipation and viewership.
• International majors would grow golf’s global footprint.
• The Masters benefits from the current gap, but the sport may not.
• Players like McIlroy and Rahm are leading the conversation.

The business case for change

Rahm acknowledged the commercial challenges: “You need to have that commercial value as well. I don’t know the logistics.” Yet, with golf’s popularity rising worldwide, expanding the major calendar could attract new sponsors and audiences. The Ryder Cup remains a biennial highlight, but a longer major season would keep the sport in the spotlight year-round.

FAQ

Shop premium products at GrandGoldman.com