These stars are worth watching in 2026, from major contenders to young players aiming for a breakthrough.
As 2025 comes to a close, the focus shifts to the upcoming year. Which players might take the next step in their careers and who could perhaps win their first major? This year, Rory McIlroy finally secured his long-awaited Masters title, and J.J. Spaun rose from world number 119 into the top 10 following his US Open victory in June. So, who are the players in 2026 expected to climb the ranks or achieve long-standing goals?
Stars Hoping for Their First Major Title
One obvious candidate on this list is Tommy Fleetwood. The 34-year-old Englishman won his first PGA Tour event last year with the FedEx Cup title, lifting a huge weight off his shoulders. With his Ryder Cup success, his win at the DP World India Championship, and a narrow playoff loss at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, he maintained good form through the year’s end. It is very possible he carries this momentum into 2026 and claims his first major victory next year.
Fellow Englishman Tyrrell Hatton is also a name not to be overlooked at the majors in 2026. Hatton already has major experience. Late mistakes cost him the chance to win the US Open in June. Though that missed opportunity was tough, it gave him invaluable experience that could be crucial if he gets another shot next year.
Cameron Young, Robert MacIntyre, and Ludvig Aberg also have genuine chances to win a major for the first time next year. Young, despite an uneven season, tied for 4th at the US Open and won his first PGA Tour event, heading into the new season with confidence. MacIntyre also had strong chances when J.J. Spaun won, finishing second. Aberg is likely to pin his biggest hopes on the Masters, where he was a strong contender this year until a poor finish cost him dearly.
Players Poised to Break Through to Stardom
The surprise of last season’s DP World Tour was Marco Penge. The Englishman finished second in the Race to Dubai, earning his first PGA Tour card. Penge now aims to make a mark on the American stage as well. He already showed promise last year by finishing tied second at the Genesis Scottish Open. With a powerful drive and at 27 years old, he has enough experience to adjust well to the transition.
Harry Hall has proven his ability on the PGA Tour, finishing tied 17th at the Tour Championship. He is known for his very steady putting and missed only three cuts in 2025. In the coming year, he could break into the world’s elite, making him a player to watch at major events.
The standout star of the 2026 DP World Tour season so far is Jayden Schaper. He has already won two of the first three events and finished tied second in the one he did not win. At just 24, Schaper impresses with his putting, requiring the fewest putts among all participants. Whether he can maintain this form remains to be seen, but currently,