These are the stars to watch in 2026, from major title contenders to young players aiming for a breakthrough.
As 2025 comes to an end, it’s time to look ahead to the next year. Which players could take the next step in their careers in 2026, and who might claim their first major victory? This year, Rory McIlroy finally captured his long-awaited Masters title, and J.J. Spaun climbed from world number 119 to the top 10 following his US Open win in June. So, who are the players poised to rise up the ranks or finally achieve their long-standing goals in the coming year?
Stars Hoping for Their First Major Title
The most obvious candidate on this list is Tommy Fleetwood. The 34-year-old Englishman won the FedEx Cup last year, his first PGA Tour victory, lifting a huge weight off his shoulders. With his Ryder Cup success, a win at the DP World India Championship, and a narrow playoff loss at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, he maintained strong form throughout the year. It’s quite possible he’ll carry that momentum into 2026 and achieve his first major triumph.
His compatriot Tyrrell Hatton is also a name to watch in 2026 majors. Hatton already has major experience and came close to winning the US Open this June, only to be undone by late mistakes. Though that missed opportunity was tough to process, it gave him invaluable experience that could prove crucial if he gets another chance next year.
Cameron Young, Robert MacIntyre, and Ludvig Aberg also have definite chances to claim their first major victory in 2026. Despite a somewhat uneven season, Young finished tied 4th at the US Open and secured his first PGA Tour win, entering the new season with confidence. MacIntyre also contended strongly during Spaun’s win, finishing second. Aberg likely places his greatest hopes on the Masters, where he flirted with the title this year before faltering late.
Players Poised to Make the Leap to Stardom
Marco Penge was the breakthrough player on the DP World Tour last season. The Englishman finished second in the Race to Dubai, qualifying for the PGA Tour for the first time. Penge aims to use this opportunity to make waves on the American stage. He already made a statement finishing tied second at the Genesis Scottish Open last year. With a powerful drive and ample experience at 27, he should adapt well to the PGA Tour.
Harry Hall demonstrated his capabilities on the PGA Tour with a tied 17th finish at the Tour Championship. Known for his precise putting and consistency, Hall missed only three cuts in 2025. 2026 could be the year he breaks into the world elite, and he certainly deserves close attention at major events.
The standout player so far in the 2026 DP World Tour season is Jayden Schaper. In the first three tournaments, he has already won twice and finished tied second in the one event he did not win. The 24-year-old excels on the greens, requiring the fewest putts among all competitors. Whether he can sustain this form