The dust has barely settled on The Masters, where Rory McIlroy became the first player to win back-to-back titles since Tiger Woods in 2002, but another big event is already upon us.
We’re well and truly into the main part of the season now, and the fact that the $20m RBC Heritage follows hot on the heels of the year’s first Major is evidence of that.
Like other Signature Events, it’s a limited-field contest, while in keeping with most of them, it doesn’t have a cut.
In total, 82 players will head to Harbour Town, including defending champion Justin Thomas, 2024 winner Scottie Scheffler and Matt Fitzpatrick, who took the title in 2023.
With those along with other huge names in the field, it’s sure to keep the momentum going after the drama at Augusta National last week, but some top players will not be involved.
Here are some star names missing, as well as the alternates list…
Rory McIlroy
Rory McIlroy misses the event after winning The Masters
(Image credit: Getty Images)
During its time as one of the PGA Tour’s elevated events, McIlroy has only played in the RBC Heritage once, when he placed T33 two years ago.
There was controversy in 2023 when he withdrew days after missing the cut at The Masters. At the time, players were obligated to play in all but one of the big events, and that became the second he missed that season.
Last year, McIlroy won his first Green Jacket, which completed his career Grand Slam, and he understandably opted to take time off to celebrate that historic achievement.
McIlroy’s withdrawal this year was announced during The Masters, but, like 2025, surely few will begrudge him the chance to bask in that achievement for a few more days.
Justin Rose
Justin Rose’s withdrawal came after his Masters heartbreak
(Image credit: Getty Images)
While McIlroy skips the event to let his Masters win sink in, for Justin Rose, who has also withdrawn, the week offers a chance to take stock of what might have been.
The Englishman led by two during the final round at Augusta National, before letting things slip around Amen Corner on his way to a tie for third.
Following last year’s playoff heartbreak, another near-miss would be hard…
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