2026 Zurich Classic preview, predictions: Can Brooks Koepka break through for a PGA Tour win with Shane Lowry?

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Take a breath because the PGA Tour is switching gears this week at the 2026 Zurich Classic. The only non-stroke play event on the tour's calendar, the Zurich Classic will welcome teams of two to TPC Louisiana for its annual team-style event that will crown the worthiest duo in the field.

Teams will play four-ball (best ball) in Rounds 1 and 3 and foursomes (alternate shot) in Rounds 2 and 4. Scores tend to find a home in the low 60s on Thursday and Saturday, while anything south of 70 on Friday and Sunday require strong performances.

With Rory McIlroy still celebrating his Masters victory, Shane Lowry has looked in the direction of Brooks Koepka for this week's partnership. Lowry is without a PGA Tour win since his title at this tournament two years ago, while Koepka continues to look for his first in his return to the PGA Tour.

This week is especially important for Koepka as he was the first alternate at the RBC Heritage and has remained on the outside looking in for the signature events. With two more slated these next two weeks before the PGA Championship, the five-time major champion will hope for a strong performance and possibly a victory to serve as a launch pad into the second major championship of the season and beyond.

Someone who does not require a catalyst is world No. 3 Matt Fitzpatrick, who will team up with his brother Alex once again. Fitzpatrick's win at the RBC Heritage has catapulted him to his highest spot in the Official World Golf Rankings of his career, but don't forget about his little brother who won in his last start out on the DP World Tour at the Indian Open.

2026 Zurich Classic schedule

Dates: April 23-26
Location: TPC Louisiana — Avondale, Louisiana
Par: 72 | Yardage: 7,425 |Architect: Pete Dye
Purse: $9,500,000

2026 Zurich Classic field, odds

Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook

• Matt Fitzpatrick & Alex Fitzpatrick (12-1): The brothers Fitzpatrick are officially the favorites this week, and it is for good reason. Both players won in their most recent starts and this appearance marks their fourth together. Before missing the cut in last year's tournament, Matt and Alex notched two straight top-20 finishes including a T11 in 2024. Matt is as complete as they come while Alex is known for his accuracy off the tee and acumen around the greens. If they hole putts with consistency, they will be tough to beat.