prize money
Prize money is the money that professionals are paid at a tournament for their placement.
Prize money is the economic basis of professional golf. Every tournament on a tour provides a total sum that is distributed among the placed players according to a fixed key. The winner receives the largest share; behind that the amounts taper down to a defined placement. Anyone who misses the cut usually goes away empty-handed. Amateurs may not accept prize money without losing their amateur status — which is why they play open tournaments only for honour and titles. The exact rules on amateur status are set by the national associations.
In practice it works like this: a playing pro enters a tournament via its entry form. After two rounds the cut is drawn; usually the best 65 players play the weekend. He makes the cut narrowly, finishes the tournament in 20th place and receives the corresponding share. From this money he pays for travel, coaches and caddie. Only from the upper ranks of the major tours does prize money become an income you can live on well. The earnings ranking, the money list, decides tour cards and invitations.
A common misconception is the comparison with amateur tournaments. At your club tournament or other competitions there are non-cash prizes and trophies but no money — and for good reason: even accepting prize money above small thresholds endangers amateur status. Anyone toying with the idea of competing as a pro should know the rules on changing status, because the return to amateur status takes a long time. For most golfers, prize money remains something to marvel at on Sunday evening television.
FAQ
Am I allowed to accept prize money at a tournament as an amateur?
No — anyone who accepts prize money above the permitted small thresholds as an amateur endangers their amateur status. That is why amateur competitions only offer non-cash prizes, trophies and vouchers. The exact limits and rules on amateur status are set by the national associations; if in doubt, ask at your club before registering.
How is the prize money distributed at a professional tournament?
Every tournament provides a total sum that is divided among the placed players according to a fixed key. The winner gets the largest share; behind that the amounts taper down to a defined placement. Anyone who misses the cut usually goes away empty-handed.
Can a professional live on prize money alone?
Only the best players on the major tours earn significant sums. On smaller tours, placements often barely cover the costs of travel, coaches and caddie — many playing pros finance themselves additionally through sponsors or lessons. The earnings ranking decides tour cards and invitations at the end of the season.