Memphis, August 8 (V7N) – The 2025 FedEx St. Jude Championship, the opening tournament of the three-event FedEx Cup playoffs, got underway at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, marking the start of a decisive stretch for the PGA Tour's top contenders.
 
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler entered the playoffs in strong form, having already claimed four PGA Tour victories this season, including two major titles. As he looks to defend his FedEx Cup crown, all eyes are on whether he can maintain momentum through the high-stakes playoff stretch.
 
A major development ahead of the tournament was the absence of Rory McIlroy. The reigning Masters champion and current second-place holder in the FedEx Cup standings has opted to skip the St. Jude Championship, citing a desire to better manage his playing schedule and reduce physical strain.
 
McIlroy’s absence presents a key opportunity for others in the field to climb the rankings and solidify their positions heading into the BMW Championship, the second leg of the playoffs.
 
With the top 70 players in the standings competing this week, the tournament promises intense action as the road to the Tour Championship begins.
 
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