The 2026 American Express marks the second stop on the PGA Tour calendar, bringing a star-studded field to California’s Coachella Valley from January 22-25.
After opening the year in Hawaii, the 2026 PGA tour shifts to the desert where The American Express is performed at the PGA West Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course and La Quinta Country Club.
This tournament’s unique pro-am format and multi-course rotation make it one of the most accessible and entertaining weeks of the year, with birdies flowing freely and winning totals often heading towards 25 under par.
Long hitters can score, but accuracy, sharp wedge play and a confident stroke on pure desert greens are just as important.
A field of 156 players will compete this week, including Scottie Scheffler, Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele in action in the Californian sun.
Current American Express betting odds for 2026
| Player | Chances |
|---|---|
| Scottie Scheffler | +700 |
| Patrick Cantlay | +1000 |
| Xander Schauffele | +1100 |
| Sungjae Im | +1600 |
| Tom Kim | +1800 |
| Justin Thomas | +2000 |
| Tony controversy | +2100 |
| Cam Jong | +2300 |
| Sam Brandt | +2600 |
| Ricky Fowler | +3000 |
Leads the American Express Golf 2026 Contenders
Scottie Scheffler
Scottie Scheffler leads the market as #1 in the world and brings tremendous consistency to the PGA West.
His elite ball striking, control off the tee and ability to remain patient in birdie-fest setups make him the clear benchmark – and he has finished in the top 10 in his last two starts here.
Patrick Cantlay
Patrick Cantlay thrives in West Coast venues and has finished second twice in this event with his precise iron play and reliance on fast desert greens.
Cantlay’s calm style suits the pace of this pro-am format perfectly and another close call – or his first victory of 2026 – seems well within reach.
Xander Schauffele
Xander Schauffele has all the tools to dominate at PGA West with his mix of control, length and all-round composure making him a regular threat in low-scoring lineups.
Fresh off a strong performance in Maui, Schauffele will relish the opportunity to go one step further in La Quinta.
Sungjae Im
Sungjae Im owns one of the most stable desert records on Tour and has achieved three top 10 finishes with The American Express in recent years.
A neat short game and solid tackling data support his scoring ability, and as the putter warms up he can finally secure his first victory since 2022.
Tom Kim
Tom Kim has quickly become a fan favorite and brings sharp iron play that fits perfectly with the target golf character of PGA West.
Kim’s porky but high ceiling makes him one of the most intriguing young contenders this week, especially after a strong finish to 2025.
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