World’s Largest Amateur Golf Championship Reaches Full Field of 3,000 Participants

43rd Annual Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Hits Maximum Capacity; Official Alternate List Opened for Coveted Spots

Play Golf Myrtle Beach is proud to announce the 43rd annual Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship field is now officially full for the acclaimed 72-hole tournament to be contested Aug. 31 – Sept. 4.

2026 World Am by the Numbers:

• Total Registered Participants: 3,000
• 49 states and 17 countries
• 95 percent of participants come from outside a 50-mile radius of the Myrtle Beach region
• Youngest participant: 20
• Oldest participant: 93
• Men: 2,698
• Women: 308

The annual event has reached its maximum field of 3,000 participants, cementing its status as one of the most highly sought-after and unique experiences in golf. With registration now closed, tournament officials have opened an alternate list for people who still wish to secure a spot in the historic event. If registered participants withdraw, available spots will be offered to potential participants on the alternate list in the order that they sign up.

“We are excited that 3,000 people have registered from all over the world to play in this year’s World Am,” says 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.”

Unlike any other amateur golf event, the World Am features 12 divisions and more than 60 competitive flights, ensuring players of all skill levels, ages, and genders compete on a level playing field through a thoughtfully managed and verified handicap system. The tournament concludes Sept. 4 when flight winners compete in the Championship Round at Grande Dunes Resort Course for the coveted title of World Amateur Champion.

In addition to four rounds of championship golf, participants receive a premium gift package valued at nearly $300 as well as nightly admission for themselves and a guest to the “World’s Largest 19th Hole” hosted by St. Andre Golf and Friends. Held at the 120,000-square-foot Myrtle Beach Convention Center, this signature gathering features complimentary food from top area restaurants, open bars, live entertainment, and one of the nation’s largest golf expos.

Golfers who missed the initial registration window are heavily encouraged to join the alternate list immediately for a chance to join this year’s field. Any participant who joins the alternate list this year, will be provided the opportunity to register for next year’s World Am during the early registration period.

“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.”

To join the official alternate list or to learn more about the event, click here.