Every year, thousands of golfers travel to Myrtle Beach with one goal in mind: competing in the world's largest amateur golf tournament. This year, demand has once again reached record levels.
The 43rd annual Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship has officially reached its maximum field of 3,000 participants for the tournament, which takes place Aug. 31–Sept. 4. Registration is now full, and organizers have opened an alternate list for golfers hoping to earn one of the coveted spots if openings become available.
"We are excited that 3,000 people have registered from all over the world to play in this year's World Am," said Scott Taylor, Championship Director. "Each year, our community's goal is to provide the best possible experience to the largest number of people that we can. We look forward to welcoming new and returning participants this year."
By the Numbers:
The 2026 World Amateur Championship continues to demonstrate Myrtle Beach's global appeal as The Golf Capital of the World®.
- 3,000 registered participants
- Golfers from all 50 states and 17 countries
- 95% of participants travel from outside a 50-mile radius of Myrtle Beach
- Youngest participant: 20
- Oldest participant: 93
These numbers highlight more than just the tournament's popularity—they underscore golf tourism's importance to the Grand Strand economy. Thousands of competitors travel with spouses, families and friends, filling hotel rooms, dining in local restaurants, shopping and enjoying attractions throughout the week.
More Than a Golf Tournament
Unlike any other amateur golf event, the World Am features 12 divisions and more than 60 competitive flights, allowing golfers of all skill levels, ages and genders to compete through a verified handicap system. The championship concludes Sept. 4 when flight winners compete at Grande Dunes Resort Course for the coveted title of World Amateur Champion.
Participants also receive a premium gift package valued at nearly $300 and admission for themselves and a guest to the World's Largest 19th Hole, hosted by St. Andre Golf and Friends at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. The nightly event features complimentary food from area restaurants, open bars, live entertainment and one of the nation's largest golf expos.
Tourism Works
The World Amateur Championship is one of the Grand Strand's signature annual sporting events and an important contributor to the local economy. Beyond showcasing Myrtle Beach's more than 90 golf courses, the tournament introduces thousands of visitors to the area's beaches, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and hospitality businesses.
"We're excited to welcome World Am participants and their guests to Myrtle Beach for this year's championship," said Stuart Butler, President of Visit Myrtle Beach. "The World Am is a celebration of golf and community, and we look forward to showcasing the exceptional golf courses, miles of Atlantic coastline, lodging and entertainment experiences that make Myrtle Beach a world-class destination."
As one of the nation's premier sports tourism events, the World Amateur Championship demonstrates how attracting visitors through golf continues to support local businesses, create jobs and reinforce the Grand Strand's reputation as one of the world's leading golf destinations.
