John Deere Classic
The John Deere Classic is a beloved fixture on the PGA Tour, known for its rich tradition, enthusiastic crowds, and some of the lowest scores on the schedule. Dating back to 1971, the tournament has become a Quad Cities institution, blending championship golf with a deep commitment to community and charity.
Played at the scenic TPC Deere Run, designed by D.A. Weibring, the course winds along the Rock River and rewards aggressive play. With its generous fairways and reachable par-5s, the John Deere Classic consistently produces thrilling final-round shootouts and has served as a springboard for future stars.
As a key stop on the PGA Tour's summer schedule, the John Deere Classic offers a full FedExCup points payout and has raised over $100 million for local charities, making it one of the most impactful events in professional golf.
🏌️ TPC Deere Run — Par 71 • 7,268 Yards • D.A. Weibring Design (2000)
TPC Deere Run is a classic Midwestern layout where aggressive play and low scoring are the name of the game. With bentgrass fairways and greens, the course rewards accurate iron play and a hot putter, often leading to winning scores in the 20-under range.
Quick Course Overview
Built along the Rock River, this D.A. Weibring design features rolling terrain, risk-reward par-5s, and a memorable closing stretch. The tournament is famous for its birdie-fest atmosphere where players go low to capture the title.
Course Type / Conditions
- Midwestern parkland layout
- Generous bentgrass fairways
- Undulating bentgrass greens receptive to scoring
- Water hazards on several key holes, including the 18th
What Matters Most
- Birdie or better percentage — players must go low
- Scoring on par-5s — three reachable par-5s create big chances
- Short game and putting — wedge distance control is critical
- Aggressive mindset — winners often make 25+ birdies
Key Holes / Momentum Stretch
- The par-5 2nd hole offers an early scoring chance to set the tone.
- The closing stretch of 16-18, featuring the famous island green at 17 and the river along 18, creates Sunday drama.
Winning Formula
- Low ball-striking with high birdie conversion rate
- Dominate the par-5s and short par-4s
- Stay aggressive and avoid three-putts on receptive greens
- Capitalize on the tournament's reputation as a scoring bonanza
John Deere Classic
2026 John Deere Classic
Tournament Details
Date: July 9-12, 2026
Location: TPC Deere Run, Silvis, IL
Field: 156 PGA Tour professionals
Summer birdie-fest with deep charitable roots.
Tournament DetailsJohn Deere Classic History (1971 - Present)
2026 John Deere Classic
Upcoming Event
TPC Deere Run - Silvis, Illinois
Full field of 156 PGA Tour players
$8.0 million purse
Summer scoring spectacle
2025 John Deere Classic
Recent Champion
TPC Deere Run
Record-setting 28-under performance
Young stars shine in Quad Cities
500 FedExCup points to winner
2020s John Deere
Modern Champions
TPC Deere Run
Sepp Straka won in 2023
J.T. Poston claimed 2022 victory
Lucas Glover champion in 2021
2010s John Deere
Memorable Victories
TPC Deere Run
Dylan Frittelli won in 2019
Jordan Spieth 2013, 2015 champion
Zach Johnson, Steve Stricker multiple wins
2000s John Deere
Tournament Growth
TPC Deere Run Era
John Deere became title sponsor in 1999
Michelle Wie made PGA Tour debut in 2006
J.P. Hayes, Mark Hensby winners
Tournament Format
Traditional Structure
156 Players Compete
72-hole stroke play format
Top 65 and ties make the cut
Full FedExCup points awarded
Iconic Venue
TPC Deere Run
D.A. Weibring Design
Designed by D.A. Weibring
Course Details:
Par 71, 7,268 yards
Charity Impact
Community Legacy
$150M+ Raised
Over $150 million raised
Supports local charities
Birdies for Charity program
Historic Champions
Legendary Winners
Golf Legends
Zach Johnson three-time champion
Steve Stricker won in 2009, 2010, 2011
Jordan Spieth, David Toms winners
The John Deere Classic Legacy
The John Deere Classic has established an impressive legacy as one of the PGA Tour's most community-focused and exciting events since its inception in 1971. Originally known as the Quad Cities Open, the tournament has evolved into a beloved summer tradition where players embrace the "go low" mentality and fans enjoy unprecedented access to the world's best golfers.
The tournament's unique position on the PGA Tour calendar creates an environment where aggressive play is rewarded, and birdie-fests become the norm. With 500 FedExCup points awarded to the champion and an $8 million purse, the John Deere Classic serves as a critical opportunity for players to secure their playoff positioning while contributing to an unmatched charitable legacy.
Beyond the competition, the John Deere Classic's commitment to philanthropy through its "Birdies for Charity" program represents one of professional golf's most successful fundraising models. Having generated over $150 million for local Quad Cities charities, the tournament embodies the spirit of giving back while celebrating Midwestern hospitality and community pride.
As the tournament continues to thrive at TPC Deere Run, it maintains its core identity as both a scoring showcase and a celebration of community values. The event's rich history, combined with its beautiful Rock River setting and profound charitable impact, has made the John Deere Classic a beloved institution that perfectly captures golf's ability to blend elite competition with meaningful community purpose.