New Jersey has long been a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting world-class courses, scenic layouts, and a passionate fan base. But the Garden State isn’t just about the courses—it’s producing top-tier golfers who are making waves on the PGA Tour and beyond. From rising young stars to seasoned professionals, New Jersey’s golf scene is more vibrant than ever.

Chris Gotterup: Garden State’s Emerging Contender

Hailing from New Jersey, Chris Gotterup has been steadily building a reputation as a fearless competitor on tour. Known for his precision off the tee and composed play under pressure, Gotterup has made several top-30 finishes on the PGA Tour, including a solid 26th-place finish at the 2025 BMW Championship.

Gotterup’s approach combines technical skill with a mental toughness that reflects his New Jersey roots. Whether navigating tight fairways or contending in high-stakes tournaments, he embodies the resilience and grit that local fans love. His progress is being closely watched by Ryder Cup selectors and golf enthusiasts who see a bright future ahead.

Cameron Young: A Rising Star with Local Ties

Another standout with Garden State connections is Cameron Young, whose fast rise on the PGA Tour has turned heads. Young recently finished 11th at the 2025 BMW Championship, continuing a summer of strong performances. With a victory already under his belt this season, Young is positioning himself as a serious contender for major tournaments and international team events.

Young’s game is a blend of length, accuracy, and a calm demeanor on the green. For New Jersey fans, watching him compete is a source of pride and inspiration, highlighting that top-level golf talent can emerge from local communities.

Past and Present New Jersey Golf Greats

New Jersey’s golf influence extends beyond Gotterup and Young. Notable past and present players with New Jersey ties include:

• Jim McGovern, who represented the state on the PGA Tour and played in multiple major championships.
• George McNeill, a New Jersey native who captured a PGA Tour victory and is recognized for his steady short game.
• Jessica Korda, raised in the Garden State, who has become a prominent figure on the LPGA Tour.

These players have helped put New Jersey on the golfing map, inspiring the next generation of talent.

New Jersey Courses That Shape Champions

Many of these athletes got their start on New Jersey’s impressive roster of golf courses. From Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City to the scenic layouts of Atlantic City Country Club and Bayonne Golf Club, the state offers diverse challenges that help golfers develop competitive skills.

• Liberty National Golf Club is set to host the BMW Championship in 2027, giving local fans the chance to witness world-class golf right at home.
• Atlantic City Country Club, with its historic design and links-style challenges, has been a breeding ground for talent for decades.
• Hidden gem courses across North and Central Jersey provide young golfers the perfect environment to hone their technique and passion for the sport.

Supporting New Jersey’s Golf Culture

Beyond producing professional players, New Jersey’s golf community thrives through youth programs, amateur tournaments, and local events. Organizations like the New Jersey State Golf Association and numerous junior golf initiatives ensure that aspiring golfers have access to quality coaching, competitive play, and networking with pros.

Golf tourism is also on the rise, with fans traveling to iconic courses and attending major tournaments that highlight the state’s rich golfing heritage. These events connect players, fans, and local businesses, strengthening New Jersey’s presence in the sport nationally.

Scottie Scheffler’s BMW Championship Triumph: A Season-Defining Victory

The 2025 BMW Championship at Caves Valley Golf Club in Owings Mills, Maryland, delivered an unforgettable weekend of drama, precision, and golf at its finest. The world’s No. 1 player, Scottie Scheffler, showcased why he continues to be compared to legends like Tiger Woods, pulling off a stunning rally from four shots behind to claim his fifth victory of the season.

Scheffler’s defining moment came on the 17th hole, the tournament’s most challenging par-3. Facing a difficult pin placement with water on the right and deep rough on the left, he executed an 82-foot chip that rolled perfectly into the cup. The shot, reminiscent of Tiger Woods’ signature magic on critical holes, was the ultimate statement of skill under pressure and ultimately secured a two-shot victory over Robert MacIntyre.

A Tournament Full of Drama

The BMW Championship, part of the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup Playoffs, is always a stage for the game’s best. This year, the event saw Scheffler overcome a four-shot deficit in just five holes, demonstrating incredible mental fortitude and strategic mastery. MacIntyre, who had dominated early, found himself closing out the event in second place despite a valiant effort that included 18 birdies in the first 45 holes.

Scheffler’s performance on Sunday included key shots that often go unnoticed but were critical to his victory. Notably, a precision 8-iron approach on the 15th hole kept him in control when his lead had dwindled to a single stroke. By the time he executed his legendary chip on 17, Scheffler had essentially clinched the win, showcasing why he now has 18 career PGA Tour titles in just over three years.

The 2025 BMW Championship will be remembered for Scheffler’s unforgettable shots, thrilling comebacks, and the continued excitement of PGA Tour competition. With the season heading toward the Tour Championship at East Lake, the stakes remain high, and every tournament becomes a showcase for elite talent and clutch performances.

Scheffler’s victory, alongside the rise of younger stars, sets the stage for more dramatic moments as the PGA Tour continues to deliver world-class golf. Fans can expect more strategic shots, tense finishes, and unforgettable highlights as the season unfolds.

For in-depth coverage, player stats, and the latest PGA Tour news, explore more golf content here and stay up to date with the biggest moments in professional golf.

Looking Ahead

With rising stars like Chris Gotterup and Cameron Young, the state’s rich tradition of golf excellence continues. As New Jersey prepares to host major tournaments like the BMW Championship at Liberty National and celebrates its top players, the Garden State remains a key contributor to professional golf.

Whether you’re a fan hoping to catch a PGA Tour event, a young golfer inspired by local pros, or someone exploring the best courses in the region, New Jersey offers a vibrant and growing golf scene that is impossible to ignore.

For more information on golf events, courses, and news in the Garden State, check out Explore New Jersey’s golf section for guides, updates, and insider tips.