2025 John Deere Classic: Thursday Tee Times & Round 1 Groupings

The 2025 John Deere Classic is set to kick off on Thursday, July 3rd, and golf enthusiasts are eager to know the tee times and pairings for the opening round. This year’s tournament promises exciting competition with a mix of seasoned players and rising stars vying for the title at TPC Deere Run. Among the notable names to watch are Ben Griffin, who is aiming for his third win of the season, and veteran players like Rickie Fowler, whose presence always draws a crowd. Knowing when and with whom these players will be teeing off is crucial for fans planning to attend or tune in. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Thursday tee times and Round 1 groupings, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action.

The John Deere Classic is more than just a golf tournament; it’s a tradition that brings together top-tier golf and community engagement. As players navigate the challenging TPC Deere Run course, fans can anticipate thrilling moments and exceptional performances. The first round sets the tone for the weekend, making the tee times a focal point for both players and spectators. Understanding the pairings and start times allows fans to follow their favorite golfers and plan their viewing schedule effectively.

In this article, we’ll delve into the featured tee times, highlighting the groups to watch, and provide a complete list of the Round 1 tee times. Additionally, we’ll cover how you can catch the action, whether on TV or through streaming services, ensuring you have all the information you need to enjoy the 2025 John Deere Classic. Stay tuned for a detailed look at who’s playing when and how to follow along.

Featured Tee Time: Ben Griffin’s Quest for a Third Win

Ben Griffin has had a remarkable 2025 season, marking it as a true breakthrough year for the 29-year-old professional. Griffin secured his first victory at the Zurich Classic, a team event, followed by an impressive solo stroke-play win. His momentum continued with a strong showing at the Memorial Tournament, where he finished . To date, Griffin has achieved eight top-10 finishes, positioning him sixth in the FedEx Cup standings. All eyes will be on Griffin as he begins his quest for his third win at this week’s John Deere Classic.

“This season has been beyond my expectations,” Griffin said in a pre-tournament interview. “Winning the Zurich Classic was incredible, but to follow it up with a solo win and consistent top-10 finishes has been amazing. I’m excited to compete at the John Deere Classic and hopefully add another victory to the list.”

Griffin is set to tee off on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. ET, playing alongside , the recent winner of last week’s tournament, and Michael Thorbjornsen, a promising young talent. This group is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated pairings of the first round, promising a display of skill and competitive spirit.

How to Watch the 2025 John Deere Classic

For fans eager to catch the action live, the first round of the John Deere Classic will be broadcast on the Golf Channel from 4-7 p.m. ET. In addition to traditional TV coverage, viewers can stream exclusive online coverage via , starting at 7:45 a.m. ET on Thursday. This comprehensive coverage ensures that fans can follow the tournament from start to finish, no matter where they are.

Golf Channel’s broadcast will feature expert commentary, player interviews, and in-depth analysis of the course and key matchups. The streaming coverage on offers an even more immersive experience, with multiple camera angles, real-time scoring updates, and interactive features that allow fans to engage with the tournament in new ways.

“We are committed to providing the best possible viewing experience for golf fans,” said a Golf Channel spokesperson. “Our coverage of the John Deere Classic will bring viewers closer to the action, with insights and analysis that enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the tournament.”

2025 John Deere Classic Tee Times for Thursday: Round 1 (ET)

Below is the complete list of tee times for the first round of the 2025 John Deere Classic. Times are listed in Eastern Time (ET).

Tee No. 1

• 7:45 a.m. – Trey Mullinax, Beau Hossler, David Lipsky
• 7:56 a.m. – Ryan Palmer, Doug Ghim, Ryo Hisatsune
• 8:07 a.m. – Joel Dahmen, Sam Stevens, Justin Lower
• 8:18 a.m. – Rafael Campos, Emiliano Grillo, Adam Schenk
• 8:29 a.m. – Austin Eckroat, Adam Svensson, Seamus Power
• 8:40 a.m. – Garrick Higgo, Brice Garnett, Matt Kuchar
• 8:51 a.m. – Kevin Yu, Peter Malnati, Luke List
• 9:02 a.m. – Patrick Rodgers, Joseph Bramlett, Ben Kohles
• 9:13 a.m. – Martin Laird, Kevin Roy, Isaiah Salinda
• 9:24 a.m. – Ricky Castillo, Paul Peterson, Cristobal Del Solar
• 9:35 a.m. – Jesper Svensson, Brandon Matthews, Zack Fischer
• 9:46 a.m. – Kaito Onishi, Steven Fisk, Preston Summerhays
• 9:57 a.m. – Takumi Kanaya, Matthew Riedel, Ben James (a)
• 1:05 p.m. – Andrew Putnam, Bud Cauley, Max McGreevy
• 1:16 p.m. – Dylan Frittelli, Austin Cook, Rico Hoey
• 1:27 p.m. – Ben Martin, Dylan Wu, David Skinns
• 1:38 p.m. – Karl Vilips, Nico Echavarria, Tom Kim
• 1:49 p.m. – Davis Thompson, Lucas Glover, Jason Day
• 2:00 p.m. – Aldrich Potgieter, Ben Griffin, Michael Thorbjornsen
• 2:11 p.m. – Joe Highsmith, Brian Campbell, Zach Johnson
• 2:22 p.m. – Lanto Griffin, Patrick Fishburn, Mac Meissner
• 2:33 p.m. – Nate Lashley, Matt NeSmith, Thorbjørn Olesen
• 2:44 p.m. – Quade Cummins, John Pak, Thomas Rosenmueller
• 2:55 p.m. – Will Chandler, Taylor Dickson, Braden Thornberry
• 3:06 p.m. – Philip Knowles, Gordon Sargent, Jackson Koivun (a)
• 3:17 p.m. – Harrison Endycott, Trevor Cone, Carson Herron

Tee No. 10

• 7:45 a.m. – Kevin Kisner, Hayden Buckley, Jacob Bridgeman
• 7:56 a.m. – Denny McCarthy, Harry Higgs, Alejandro Tosti
• 8:07 a.m. – Chad Ramey, Keith Mitchell, Vince Whaley
• 8:18 a.m. – Stephan Jaeger, Si Woo Kim, Sungjae Im
• 8:29 a.m. – J.T. Poston, Chris Kirk, Michael Kim
• 8:40 a.m. – Jake Knapp, Rickie Fowler, Max Homa
• 8:51 a.m. – Matt McCarty, Nick Dunlap, Chris Gotterup
• 9:02 a.m. – Cameron Champ, Danny Willett, Victor Perez
• 9:13 a.m. – Chesson Hadley, Ryan Gerard, Jackson Suber
• 9:24 a.m. – Kevin Velo, Vince Covello, David Ford
• 9:35 a.m. – Anders Albertson, Rikuya Hoshino, Luke Clanton
• 9:46 a.m. – Thriston Lawrence, Pierceson Coody, Petr Hruby
• 9:57 a.m. – Frankie Capan III, William Mouw, Brendan Valdes
• 1:05 p.m. – Kyle Stanley, James Hahn, Henrik Norlander
• 1:16 p.m. – Mark Hubbard, Sam Ryder, Zac Blair
• 1:27 p.m. – Adam Hadwin, Bronson Burgoon, Carson Young
• 1:38 p.m. – Camilo Villegas, Lee Hodges, Nick Hardy
• 1:49 p.m. – Kurt Kitayama, Brandt Snedeker, Aaron Wise
• 2:00 p.m. – Patton Kizzire, Taylor Moore, Christiaan Bezuidenhout
• 2:11 p.m. – Eric Cole, Will Gordon, Chandler Phillips
• 2:22 p.m. – Greyson Sigg, Chan Kim, Sami Valimaki
• 2:33 p.m. – Alex Smalley, Ben Silverman, Kris Ventura
• 2:44 p.m. – Trace Crowe, Noah Goodwin, Mason Andersen
• 2:55 p.m. – Taylor Montgomery, Nicholas Lindheim, Jay Giannetto
• 3:06 p.m. – Hayden Springer, Jeremy Paul, Michael La Sasso (a)
• 3:17 p.m. – Paul Waring, Tim Widing, Josh Radcliff

Rickie Fowler’s Group and Expectations

Rickie Fowler, a prominent name in the world of golf, will be teeing off from Tee No. 10 at 8:40 a.m. ET. He is grouped with Jake Knapp and Max Homa, making it a must-watch trio for the morning session. Fowler’s recent performances have been closely followed by fans and analysts alike, and his participation in the John Deere Classic adds significant excitement to the event.

Fowler’s career has been marked by impressive achievements and a strong fan base. His presence in any tournament elevates the competition and draws considerable attention. This year, Fowler is looking to make a strong statement at TPC Deere Run and improve his standing in the FedEx Cup rankings.

“I’m always excited to play in the John Deere Classic,” Fowler stated earlier this week. “The course is fantastic, and the fans are incredibly supportive. I’m looking forward to a great week of golf and hope to be in contention on Sunday.”

TPC Deere Run: Course Conditions and Key Challenges

TPC Deere Run is known for its meticulously maintained fairways and challenging greens. As players prepare for the first round, understanding the course conditions is crucial for success. The course typically favors accurate iron play and strategic course management. The greens are often fast and undulating, requiring precise putting.

“The course is in excellent condition this year,” said John Deere Classic tournament director Clair Peterson. “We’ve had ideal weather leading up to the tournament, and the greens are rolling perfectly. Players will need to be sharp with their approach shots and putting to score well.”

One of the key challenges at TPC Deere Run is the ability to navigate the water hazards and strategically placed bunkers. Players who can avoid costly mistakes and capitalize on scoring opportunities will have a significant advantage. The par-5 holes are particularly important, offering birdie opportunities for those who can reach them in two.

Additional Notes and Potential Storylines

As the 2025 John Deere Classic unfolds, several storylines are worth monitoring. The performance of young amateurs like Ben James and Jackson Koivun will be of particular interest, as they look to make a name for themselves against seasoned professionals. Additionally, the return of Zach Johnson to the John Deere Classic adds a sentimental touch, as he has a strong connection to the tournament and the local community.

The tournament also serves as an important opportunity for players looking to secure their PGA Tour cards for next season. With valuable FedEx Cup points on the line, expect intense competition and determined performances from those on the bubble.

Keep an eye on players like Kevin Kisner and Brandt Snedeker, who have had success at TPC Deere Run in the past. Their experience and course knowledge could give them an edge over the competition.

Conclusion: A Promising Start to the 2025 John Deere Classic

The first round of the 2025 John Deere Classic promises an exciting start to the tournament. With intriguing pairings, seasoned veterans, and rising stars all vying for the lead, fans can expect a day filled with memorable moments and exceptional golf. The detailed tee times provided ensure that you won’t miss any of the action, whether you’re following Ben Griffin’s quest for a third win or keeping an eye on Rickie Fowler’s performance.

As the players navigate the challenges of TPC Deere Run, the course conditions and strategic elements will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the leaderboard. Accurate iron play, precise putting, and smart course management will be essential for success. The tournament not only showcases top-tier golf but also highlights the strong community engagement that makes the John Deere Classic a beloved event.

Whether you’re watching on the Golf Channel, streaming online, or attending in person, the 2025 John Deere Classic is set to deliver a compelling and thrilling experience. Stay tuned for updates, analysis, and highlights throughout the week as we follow the journey to crown the next champion.