The AdventHealth Championship announced today that Kansas City golf legend and 39‑time PGA TOUR winner Tom Watson will serve as the official ambassador for the tournament, marking one of the most significant moments in the event’s history. Watson’s involvement adds extraordinary momentum to a year already marked by major developments for Kansas City’s only PGA TOUR‑sanctioned event, including the recent announcement that the 2026 tournament will be broadcast nationally on the Golf Channel.

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Widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time, Watson, winner of eight major championships, brings unmatched credibility, visibility, and hometown pride to the AdventHealth Championship. His ambassadorship will amplify the tournament’s reach, strengthen its community impact, and highlight Kansas City as a premier destination for professional golf.

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“I’ve always taken great pride in representing Kansas City, and after spending time at the tournament last year—meeting the players, talking with fans, and seeing the energy around this event—I knew it was something special,” said Watson. “I’m proud to support an event that continues to elevate the game and shine a spotlight on our city.”

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Watson’s commitment to the event also reflects his broader dedication to growing the game for the next generation. His non-profit organization, Watson Links, connects junior golfers ages 10-18 with vetted adult mentors for free, 9‑hole rounds of golf. Founded in Kansas City and inspired by Watson’s own childhood experiences learning the game alongside his father, Watson Links drives a passion for play, intergenerational relationships and personal growth for juniors and golf mentors alike. In 2026, Watson Links programs will positively impact 50+ locations nationwide.

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“What makes this tournament truly stand out is the people behind it—the volunteers, the fans, and the young golfers who remind us why the game matters,” Watson added. “Growing the game for the next generation has always been important to me, and I’m excited to spend more time at this year’s championship meeting the folks who make it all work. Their passion is what keeps golf thriving in Kansas City." 

 

The 2026 AdventHealth Championship will take place August 17–23 at Blue Hills Country Club, and will serve as the final regular season event prior to the Korn Ferry Tour Finals. Following the AdventHealth Championship, the four season-ending Korn Ferry Tour Finals events will determine which 20 players earn their PGA TOUR cards, making Kansas City a pivotal stop on the road to golf’s biggest stage.

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"We are thrilled to welcome golf legend and Kansas City native Tom Watson as the Official Ambassador for the AdventHealth Championship," said Alex Baldwin, President, Korn Ferry Tour. "Tom has been a tremendous advocate for this tournament and his support has been integral to the continued elevation of this event. We're excited for the AdventHealth Championship's new position on our calendar, serving as our final regular season event, and we look forward to the tournament's broadcast debut on Golf Channel this August."

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“Partnering with Tom Watson brings his reputation of consistent excellence and integrity to the AdventHealth Championship,” said AdventHealth Regional CEO Sam Huenergardt. “Tom’s accomplishments, his commitment to growing the game, and his passion for investing in the next generation make him an extraordinary ambassador for this tournament. We are honored to stand alongside him in elevating the tournament and showcasing the best of what Kansas City has to offer on a national stage.”