The PGA Tour's Genesis Invitational resumes at The Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, after a one-year absence due to wildfires. Scottie Scheffler enters as the favorite with a strong recent form, while Collin Morikawa aims to build on his Pebble Beach victory. The event features a $20 million purse and notable course modifications.
The Genesis Invitational, a Signature Event on the PGA Tour, tees off on February 19, 2026, at The Riviera Country Club, marking its return to the historic venue following the 2025 edition at Torrey Pines due to wildfires in the Los Angeles area. The tournament, hosted by Tiger Woods, spans February 19-22 and includes a field of 72 players, with a 36-hole cut to the top 50 and ties or those within 10 shots of the lead. Ludvig Åberg defends his 2025 title won at Torrey Pines, while Hideki Matsuyama claimed victory at Riviera in 2024 with a score of 17-under.
Riviera, celebrating its 100th anniversary, has undergone changes to address modern distance gains. The par-3 fourth hole, once 236 yards and called 'the greatest par 3 in America' by Ben Hogan, now measures 273 yards. The par-4 18th has been extended by 24 yards to 499 yards. Rory McIlroy described the fourth hole alteration as 'a horrible change,' noting only 15% of the field hit the green at its prior length. Collin Morikawa, fresh off a win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, expressed interest in victory here, stating, 'I would love to go and win at Riviera.'
Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, leads betting odds at +300 after three straight top-four finishes this season, including a win at The American Express. He has yet to contend strongly at Riviera, with no finish within six shots of the winner in six starts. Other contenders include Rory McIlroy (+1100), who has a runner-up finish here, and Tommy Fleetwood (+1900), who tied for fourth at Pebble Beach. Max Homa, a local favorite and 2021 winner at Riviera, seeks a turnaround after modest early-season results.
The par-71 layout, at 7,384 yards, emphasizes approach play, with average approaches at 177.8 yards. Weather forecasts predict rain on opening day, potentially softening conditions, followed by milder winds. Broadcast coverage begins Thursday on Golf Channel from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
