Headlines about huge winner's cheques suggest every professional golfer is wealthy. In reality, prize money is concentrated at the top, most professionals have significant expenses, and many earn a modest living. Here's how golf prize money works, and what it means for players at different levels.
The purse
The purse is the total prize money for a tournament. It's distributed according to a payout table:
- The winner usually receives the biggest share, often a substantial percentage of the total.
- Places below receive progressively smaller amounts.
- Players who miss the cut usually receive nothing.
Read how professional golf tournaments work.
Ties
When players tie for a position, the prize money for the tied positions is usually added together and shared equally. For example, two players tied for second share the second and third place prizes.
Expenses
Touring professionals typically pay for:
- Travel and accommodation.
- Caddie fees, often a weekly wage plus a percentage of winnings. Read our golf caddie guide.
- Coaching, fitness and physiotherapy.
- Entry fees and membership dues.
- Equipment (often supplied through sponsorship).
On smaller tours, expenses can exceed winnings for many players. Read how to become a professional golfer.
Other income
- Sponsorship and endorsements.
- Appearance fees at some events.
- Bonus pools based on season-long performance.
- Pro-ams and corporate days. Read pro-am events explained.
- Teaching and club jobs for many professionals. Read how to become a golf coach.
Money lists and rankings
Many tours rank players by season earnings or points, which determine status for the following season. World rankings are based on points rather than money. Read how golf world rankings work.
Prizes in amateur golf
Amateurs may accept prizes in competitions within limits set by the rules of amateur status. Cash prizes are restricted, and amateurs must not play for prize money in a way that breaches the rules. Read amateur golf competitions explained and hole in one guide.
Club professionals and local events
Club professionals often play in regional events with smaller purses, alongside their main work teaching and running golf operations. Read careers in the golf industry.
Frequently asked questions
How is prize money split in golf tournaments?
According to a payout table, with the largest share to the winner and smaller amounts down the leaderboard for players who make the cut.
Do golfers get paid if they miss the cut?
Usually not, in most professional stroke-play events.
Do professional golfers pay their own expenses?
Yes, typically including travel, accommodation and caddie fees.
Can amateurs win prize money?
Only within the limits set by the rules of amateur status.
The bottom line
Golf prize money is concentrated at the top and comes with significant expenses. Understanding purses, payouts, the cut and amateur status rules gives a clearer picture of life as a professional. For more, read how to become a professional golfer.