Chrystel Vaughan

Written by Chrystel Vaughan

Published: 13 Jul 2025

30-facts-about-john-deere-classic-payout
Source: Sbnation.com

Ever wondered how much golfers earn at the John Deere Classic? This annual golf tournament, held in Silvis, Illinois, is not just about the game; it’s also about the impressive payouts. The John Deere Classic payout has grown significantly over the years, making it a lucrative event for professional golfers. With a total purse that often exceeds $6 million, the winner alone can take home over $1 million! But it’s not just the top spot that gets rewarded. Even those finishing lower on the leaderboard receive substantial earnings. Curious about the exact figures and how they compare to other tournaments? Keep reading to uncover all the details about the John Deere Classic payout structure.

Table of Contents

John Deere Classic: A Brief Overview

The John Deere Classic is a professional golf tournament on the PGA Tour. Held annually in Silvis, Illinois, it attracts top golfers from around the world. The event is known for its competitive spirit and generous payouts.

  1. The John Deere Classic began in 1971 as the Quad Cities Open.
  2. John Deere became the title sponsor in 1999.
  3. The tournament is played at TPC Deere Run, a course designed by D.A. Weibring.

Prize Money Distribution

The prize money at the John Deere Classic is a significant draw for golfers. Here's how the payout is typically distributed.

  1. The total purse for the 2023 John Deere Classic was $7.1 million.
  2. The winner's share is usually 18% of the total purse.
  3. In 2023, the winner took home approximately $1.278 million.

Historical Payouts

Over the years, the payouts have increased significantly, reflecting the tournament's growing prestige.

  1. In 2000, the total purse was $2 million.
  2. By 2010, the purse had increased to $4.4 million.
  3. The 2020 tournament, canceled due to COVID-19, had a planned purse of $6.2 million.

Notable Winners and Their Earnings

Several notable golfers have won the John Deere Classic, earning substantial payouts.

  1. Jordan Spieth won in 2013 and 2015, earning over $2 million combined.
  2. Steve Stricker won three consecutive times from 2009 to 2011, amassing significant earnings.
  3. Bryson DeChambeau's 2017 win netted him $1.008 million.

Impact on Local Economy

The John Deere Classic isn't just about golf; it also has a significant economic impact on the local community.

  1. The tournament generates approximately $54 million annually for the local economy.
  2. Over $133 million has been raised for local charities since the tournament's inception.
  3. The Birdies for Charity program is a major fundraising initiative associated with the event.

Sponsorship and Media Coverage

Sponsorship and media coverage play crucial roles in the tournament's success.

  1. John Deere's sponsorship has been pivotal in increasing the tournament's prize money.
  2. The event is broadcast on major networks like CBS and Golf Channel.
  3. Media coverage helps attract top-tier golfers and increases viewership.

Player Incentives

Beyond the prize money, there are other incentives for players to participate in the John Deere Classic.

  1. The winner receives a two-year exemption on the PGA Tour.
  2. Players can earn FedEx Cup points, crucial for end-of-season rankings.
  3. The tournament offers a charter flight to the British Open for participants.

Course Challenges and Rewards

TPC Deere Run presents unique challenges and rewards for golfers, impacting their potential earnings.

  1. The course features a mix of long par-4s and reachable par-5s.
  2. Water hazards and bunkers add to the difficulty, testing players' skills.
  3. Low scores are common, with the winning score often around 20-under par.

Fan Experience

Fans play a vital role in the atmosphere of the John Deere Classic, contributing to its success.

  1. The tournament attracts over 100,000 spectators annually.
  2. Family-friendly activities and amenities enhance the fan experience.
  3. The event offers various ticket packages, including VIP options.

Future of the John Deere Classic

Looking ahead, the John Deere Classic aims to continue growing and evolving.

  1. Plans are in place to increase the total purse in the coming years.
  2. Efforts are ongoing to attract more international players.
  3. The tournament aims to further its charitable contributions and community impact.

Final Thoughts on John Deere Classic Payout

The John Deere Classic payout isn't just about the money. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players. Each year, the tournament brings excitement, competition, and a significant financial reward for the top performers. The payout structure ensures that even those who don't finish at the top still walk away with a decent sum, making the event worthwhile for all participants.

Beyond the financial aspect, the John Deere Classic also supports local charities, contributing millions of dollars to various causes. This dual impact of rewarding players and giving back to the community makes the tournament special.

Whether you're a golf fan or just curious about the financial side of sports, the John Deere Classic payout offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of professional golf. It's more than just numbers; it's about passion, perseverance, and giving back.

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