Scottie Scheffler Leads Stacked Field at Arnold Palmer Invitational

Top 10 players in the world compete at Bay Hill Club & Lodge for $20 million purse

Mar. 3, 2026 at 10:51pm

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The 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Florida features a loaded field, with all 10 of the top-ranked golfers in the world competing for the $20 million purse. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is the favorite at +350 to win the tournament, which is the final event before next week's Players Championship.

Why it matters

The Arnold Palmer Invitational is one of the PGA Tour's signature events, drawing the best players in the world to compete at Bay Hill. With the entire top 10 in the Official World Golf Rankings in the field, this tournament will provide a preview of the top contenders heading into the Players Championship, which is considered the Tour's flagship event.

The details

Scottie Scheffler, the world's top-ranked player, leads the field at Bay Hill. He's coming off a T12 finish at the Genesis Invitational last month, which was his worst result of the season. Other top players in the field include Rory McIlroy, who was the runner-up at the Genesis, and Justin Thomas, who is making his first start since undergoing back surgery after the Ryder Cup. Shane Lowry and Xander Schauffele will also be teeing it up this week.

  • The 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational will be held from March 5-8.
  • The tournament is the final event before the Players Championship next week.

The players

Scottie Scheffler

The world's top-ranked golfer and the favorite to win the Arnold Palmer Invitational at +350 odds.

Rory McIlroy

The Northern Irish superstar and former world No. 1 who was the runner-up at the Genesis Invitational last month.

Justin Thomas

The American star who is making his first start since undergoing back surgery after the Ryder Cup last fall.

Shane Lowry

The Irish golfer who is looking to bounce back after a stunning collapse at last week's Cognizant Classic.

Xander Schauffele

The American who will be paired with Shane Lowry in the first two rounds at Bay Hill.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.