Nick Taylor returns to defend the Sony Open as the event's future may change

Nick Taylor is back at Waialae Country Club to defend his Sony Open title, and players say planned schedule changes for 2027 could affect whether the Hawaii swing continues.

Nick Taylor is defending his Sony Open title this week at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu. He won the event a year ago in a playoff for his fifth PGA Tour victory. The Sony Open moved to the season-opening spot in 2026 after The Sentry was canceled. Players are discussing rumored schedule changes for 2027 that could alter or end the Hawaii swing. Key facts: - Nick Taylor won the Sony Open last year in a playoff and is the defending champion this week. - The Sony Open is being played at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu and served as the season opener in 2026 after The Sentry was canceled. - Tour schedule changes planned for 2027 are reported to be under discussion and could affect the Hawaii events. - Taylor said he would miss the tournament and Hawaii if it no longer appears on the calendar, and he noted value in a longer offseason for family time. - Collin Morikawa is playing the Sony for the first time since 2021 and cited family ties to Maui and Lahaina. Summary: Players said the possible loss of the Hawaii swing would change the early-season rhythm and affect travel and personal plans for some competitors. Undetermined at this time.