Golfer withdrawals (WDs) and late scratches are a regular part of PGA Tour events. Here's what happens to your entry when your pick doesn't tee it up — and how alternate picks protect you.
What Counts as a Withdrawal?
A withdrawal is when a golfer can't play due to:
A pre-tournament injury announced before they tee off
A tournament cancellation or weather postponement that moves play to a later day
If your golfer starts the tournament and then withdraws mid-round, they are generally not eligible to be replaced — they played, so alternate protection does not apply.
How Alternate Picks Work
If your contest has Alternate Picks enabled, you'll designate a backup golfer alongside your primary pick:
If your primary pick withdraws before playing, your alternate automatically steps in and becomes your primary pick for that tournament
The swap happens once your alternate's round is complete; their performance then counts as your score
If your alternate also withdraws or doesn't play, your entry receives $0 in Dollar Winnings (or a missed pick in Total Strokes) for that tournament
Player Use Limit Impact
A golfer swapped out for not playing is returned to your available player pool — they don't count against your use limit and can be picked again
An alternate who wasn't used (because your primary played as expected) is also returned to your pool
What If My Contest Doesn't Have Alternate Picks?
If Alternate Picks aren't enabled and your golfer withdraws before playing, you'll receive $0 in Dollar Winnings (or the equivalent of a missed pick in Total Strokes) for that tournament. There's no manual replacement once the pick deadline has passed — monitor injury reports and withdrawal news before each week's deadline.
Tips for Avoiding WD Risk
Check the PGA Tour website or app for late withdrawal news before each tournament
Set your alternate pick as soon as you make your primary — don't wait until the last minute
Questions about a specific withdrawal? Email support@splashsports.com with your contest name and we'll look into it.