Sony Open Preview

The course offers exceptional facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, allowing golfers to perform at their best. Nick Taylor’s thrilling comeback in the final round last year, when he overcame the leaders to secure the title, highlights the excitement that awaits. Let’s take a look at the preview.

Nick Taylor

Last year, Nick Taylor delivered an impressive performance in the later stages of the event, ultimately securing the title in dramatic fashion. By doing so, he made history, becoming the 11th international player to win the event. This victory marked the 37-year-old Canadian’s fifth PGA Tour title. Now, Taylor returns, carrying the weight of expectation and the pressure to perform when it matters most. Despite struggling with form recently—having failed to finish inside the top 10 in his last four events—his last notable performance came in the first half of last year’s season, when he finished fourth at the Memorial Open. Nevertheless, Taylor is known for his strong starts and will undoubtedly strive to defend his crown. If he succeeds, he will emulate Jimmy Walker, who successfully defended the title 11 years ago.

Russell Henley

Russell Henley returns to the event after a commendable Tied 10th finish. He will be looking to build on this performance and is considered a strong contender for the title. The 36-year-old American Ryder Cup team member had an outstanding 2025 season, culminating in a world ranking of 5. He also secured the Arnold Palmer Invitation by Mastercard title, his first victory in 2 years. Additionally, he finished tied for second in the Tour Championship, ending the year on a high note. He now has a point to prove that his exceptional form last season was not an anomaly.

Hideki Matsuyama

Hideki Matsuyama finished last year on a strong note by winning the Hero World Challenge, a triumph that provided a significant confidence boost after a season in which he struggled to convert opportunities into victories. Now, the 33-year-old Japanese golfer is set to begin the new year at the Sony Open, where he will be a major contender for the title. Matsuyama previously won the event in 2022 and also claimed the Sentry Open in his first tournament last year, successes he will be eager to replicate. As the 2021 Masters Champion, he will need to deliver an exceptional performance to remain in contention. With 11 PGA Tour titles to his name, Matsuyama is well-equipped to devise a winning strategy.

Prize Money

The event features a substantial $9 100 000 prize money with the champion receiving $1 638 000 in total.

Past winners

– Nick Taylor ( 2025)

– Grayson Murray (2024)

– Kim Si Woo ( 2023)

– Hideki Matsuyama ( 2022)

– Kevin Na( 2021)