Major champion Padraig Harrington hasn’t held back in his criticism of proposed changes to the PGA Tour set to take effect in 2026. Speaking on Golf Today, Harrington described the potential reforms as “just terrible,” taking issue with several aspects, including reduced field sizes, fewer fully exempt players, and cuts to Monday qualifiers.
The PGA Tour’s Player Advisory Council recently circulated a 23-page document outlining the changes, which will soon face a vote by the Policy Board, a group of 12 members that includes Tiger Woods. Among the proposals are a reduction in field sizes and adjustments to the qualification process, aiming to improve pace of play and tournament efficiency.
For Harrington, these adjustments threaten the very essence of competition. "At the end of the day, those on the inside are voting to keep things tighter and more exclusive,” he said. "Why not just have 12 players in the event and send everyone else home?" He argued that while slow play and scheduling challenges are real issues, limiting opportunities for players isn’t the answer.
One of the most controversial elements for Harrington is the proposed reduction in Monday qualifiers. These events, which offer emerging players a chance to compete in Tour events, would be significantly scaled back. “Monday qualifiers are one of the most exciting aspects of the Tour,” Harrington said. “They provide a platform for players who are hungry and determined to break through.”
Harrington also suggested that a stronger secondary tour could mitigate some of the issues, hinting that the DP World Tour might eventually serve as a complementary pathway. He emphasized that young players who seek out challenging opportunities—traveling for Monday qualifiers or competing in international events—show a level of commitment that sets them apart.
The proposed changes will go to a vote on November 18, and while they are likely to pass, Harrington’s strong stance highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between accessibility and competitiveness on the PGA Tour.