Vijay Singh made headlines as he teed off during the second round of the Furyk & Friends PGA Tour Champions event at Timuquana Country Club in Jacksonville, Florida, on October 4, 2025. At 62 years old, Singh is not just a participant but a full-time member of the PGA Tour, returning to the spotlight and starting a one-year exemption at the upcoming Sony Open in Hawaii.
Singh, who boasts an impressive golf career with 34 PGA Tour victories and a place in the top 50 of the all-time money list, aims to revitalize his presence in the sport. His total earnings have surpassed $71 million, making him the sixth highest earner in PGA Tour history. Notably, Singh has held the title of the world’s number one player and is a Hall of Fame inductee, affirming his status as one of golf’s legends.
While some might view his return as a comeback story reminiscent of athletes like Philip Rivers, who took a risk by re-entering the NFL at the age of 44, Singh has faced mixed reactions. Critics often point to past controversies, including a longstanding legal dispute with the PGA Tour over his use of deer antler spray and an earlier ban from the Asia Tour. Singh’s reputation, characterized by a somewhat aloof demeanor, complicates public perception of his latest move.
Despite the baggage, many in the golf community still support his return. Brandan Kop, a seasoned player and one of Hawaii’s top amateurs, expressed his hope that Singh’s participation will benefit the game, stating, “The name still draws and he’s good for the game.” Kop noted the hard work Singh puts into his craft, highlighting that his perfectionism often leads to intensive practice routines.
The rules allowing seasoned players like Singh to enjoy exemptions may not sit well with everyone, particularly those aspiring younger players seeking opportunities. However, the sentiment surrounding Singh is largely one of anticipation and celebration of a legendary figure returning to the sport.
As Singh gears up for the Sony Open, which runs from Thursday to Sunday at Waialae Country Club, he joins an elite field aiming for a share of the $9.1 million purse, with $1.638 million designated for the champion. Defending his title will be Nick Taylor, who won in a dramatic two-round playoff last year. The event promises to showcase not just the competition on the greens but also the enduring stories of mentorship and resilience among athletes at various stages of their careers.
Golf fans can catch the action on the Golf Channel and streaming on ESPN+, solidifying this tournament as a must-watch for those eager to see how veterans like Singh refuse to fade quietly into the background, redefining the narrative of aging athletes.