The FedEx Cup playoffs begin this week with the first of four tournaments that will crown a season-long PGA Tour champion. Do not confuse that with the player who won the most tournaments, majors or money. Or who is ultimately voted PGA Tour player of the year.
The playoff system, which began in 2007 and pays out a $10 million bonus to the winner, has been tweaked a few times in its 12-year history with the idea of trying to balance a system that rewards those who have had a strong year with those who get hot during the final four events.