The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is one of the most iconic and enduring golf tournaments in the world, boasting a rich history that spans over eight decades.
Origins and Early Years
The tournament was founded in 1937 by the legendary singer and actor Bing Crosby. The first event, known as the National Pro-Amateur Golf Championship, was held at Rancho Santa Fe, California. Crosby’s vision was to create an event where skilled amateurs could play alongside professional golfers, enjoy a clambake, and raise money for charity. The inaugural tournament was won by Sam Snead, who opted for cash instead of the $500 winner’s check[2][5].
Impact of World War II
The tournament was suspended during World War II but resumed in 1947 on the Monterey Peninsula, specifically at Pebble Beach Golf Links, Cypress Point Club, and Monterey Peninsula Country Club. This change in venue was orchestrated by Monterey civic leaders to boost local tourism[2][5].
Evolution and Growth
Over the years, the tournament has undergone several changes. In 1958, it became one of the longest-running sports events on television when it was first broadcast. The event’s popularity was significantly enhanced by Bing Crosby’s star power and the involvement of Hollywood celebrities, earning it the nickname “Crosby’s Clambake”[2].
Course Changes and Sponsorships
The tournament has seen several course changes. Initially, it was played at Pebble Beach Golf Links, Cypress Point Club, and Monterey Peninsula Country Club. Over the years, other courses such as Poppy Hills, Spyglass Hill, and Monterey Peninsula Country Club have been included or replaced in the rotation. In 2024, Monterey Peninsula Country Club was replaced by Poppy Hills again, reflecting ongoing adjustments to the tournament format[1].
In 1986, AT&T became the title sponsor, marking a significant milestone in the tournament’s history[2].
Recent Developments
In 2024, the PGA Tour announced that the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am would become a Signature Event, leading to a reimagined tournament format. This new format involves amateurs competing alongside professionals over the first two rounds, with the competition limited to professionals only for the final two rounds at Pebble Beach Golf Links[1].
Notable Winners and Moments
The tournament has been won by some of golf’s biggest names. Phil Mickelson has won the event four times, expressing his deep emotional connection to the tournament and the venue. Tiger Woods won the tournament in 2001 and went on to win the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach later that year. Other notable winners include Dustin Johnson, who won the tournament in consecutive years, and Tom Hoge, who secured his first PGA Tour victory at the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am[1][3].
Cultural and Charitable Impact
The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is not just a golf tournament but also a significant cultural and charitable event. It has been a staple of the PGA Tour, attracting a wide audience and contributing to local tourism and charitable causes. The event’s clambake tradition and the involvement of celebrities have made it a unique and enjoyable experience for both participants and spectators[2][5].
Key Facts About the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
Founded in 1937: By Bing Crosby as the National Pro-Amateur Golf Championship at Rancho Santa Fe, California[2][5].
Initial Winner: Sam Snead, who preferred cash over the $500 winner’s check[2][5].
Post-WWII Resumption: The tournament resumed in 1947 on the Monterey Peninsula at Pebble Beach Golf Links, Cypress Point Club, and Monterey Peninsula Country Club[2][5].
Television Debut: First broadcast on television in 1958, making it one of the longest-running sports events on TV[2].
Course Rotation: Includes Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, and other courses like Poppy Hills and Monterey Peninsula Country Club over the years[1].
Title Sponsorship: AT&T became the title sponsor in 1986[2].
2024 Format Change: Became a PGA Tour Signature Event with a new format featuring amateurs in the first two rounds and professionals only in the final two rounds at Pebble Beach Golf Links[1].
Notable Winners: Phil Mickelson (four times), Tiger Woods, Dustin Johnson, and Tom Hoge among others[1][3].
Charitable and Cultural Impact: Significant contributions to local tourism and charitable causes, with a unique cultural presence due to its clambake tradition and celebrity involvement[2][5].
