Top 5 Stars Skipping 2026 Farmers Insurance Open’s $9.6 Million Event
The 2026 Farmers Insurance Open promises to be an exciting event, taking place from January 29 to February 1 at Torrey Pines, California. This prestigious tournament features a purse of $9.6 million and will utilize both the North and South courses, culminating on the South Course.
End of an Era for Farmers Insurance
This year’s event has significant emotional weight as it marks the conclusion of Farmers Insurance’s 17-year sponsorship. The final tournament under their title sponsorship is sure to draw considerable attention.
Notable Absences from the Farmers Insurance Open
While the field will include several stars, several prominent players will not participate. Here’s a look at the top five notable absentees:
1. Scottie Scheffler
- Current World No. 1, Scottie Scheffler, will skip the event.
- Fresh from winning The American Express, he recorded his 20th PGA Tour victory.
- With total earnings exceeding $100 million, Scheffler is likely resting for the upcoming WM Phoenix Open.
2. Rory McIlroy
- Irish golfer Rory McIlroy is also absent, having opted to compete in the Middle East instead.
- He participated in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, an event he has won four times previously.
- McIlroy’s focus on global commitments shapes his competitive calendar.
3. Tommy Fleetwood
- Tommy Fleetwood, currently ranked third in the world, will not play in San Diego.
- The reigning FedEx Cup champion recently finished T41 at the Dubai Desert Classic.
- Like McIlroy, he resides in Dubai, contributing to his decision to skip this event.
4. Russell Henley
- Russell Henley, ranked fourth in the world, is also taking a break from the tournament.
- He recently achieved a T9 finish at The American Express and has shown stellar performance in the past.
- Henley’s best result at Torrey Pines was a T14 finish in 2022.
5. Ben Griffin and Robert MacIntyre
- Ben Griffin, ranked eighth in the world, will not compete despite a promising start to 2026.
- Robert MacIntyre, who recently achieved a top-five OWGR ranking, has also chosen to sit out this week.
- Both players seek a reset after recent performances that included strong finishes.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Farmers Insurance Open will showcase a mix of new and returning talents, along with notable absences that may impact the overall competition. Fans can look forward to a thrilling tournament as the PGA Tour calendar continues to unfold.
