Golfer withdrawals (WDs) and late scratches are a regular part of PGA Tour events. Here's exactly 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 occurs when a golfer is unable to 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 by your alternate — they played, so the alternate protection does not apply.
How Alternate Picks Work
If your contest has Alternate Picks enabled, you'll be able to designate a backup golfer alongside your primary pick. Here's what happens:
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
Your alternate's performance then counts as your score for that event
If your alternate also withdraws or doesn't play, your entry will receive $0 in Dollar Winnings (or a missed pick in Total Strokes) for that tournament
Does a Withdrawn Golfer Count Against My Player Use Limit?
If your primary pick is swapped out because they didn't play, that golfer is returned to your available player pool — they do not count against your player use limit. You'll be able to select them again in a future tournament.
Similarly, if your alternate was not used (your primary played as expected), your alternate is also returned to your pool.
What If My Contest Doesn't Have Alternate Picks?
If Alternate Picks are not enabled in your contest and your golfer withdraws before playing, you will receive $0 in Dollar Winnings or the equivalent of a missed pick in Total Strokes for that tournament. There is no manual replacement available once the pick deadline has passed.
This is why it's always a good idea to monitor injury reports and withdrawal news before the pick deadline each week.
Tips for Avoiding WD Risk
Check the PGA Tour website or app for late withdrawal announcements before each tournament
Set your alternate pick as soon as you make your primary selection — don't wait until the last minute
Be especially cautious with golfers who have recent injury history heading into a major
Questions about a specific withdrawal situation? Email support@splashsports.com with your contest name and we'll look into it.