The PGA Tour heads to the California desert for The American Express, where low scores, perfect weather, and multiple courses create one of the most unique stops on the schedule. As One and Done players look to build momentum early in the season, this event presents a prime opportunity to capitalize without burning elite major-week options. With birdies flowing and volatility always in play, identifying the right PGA American Express One and Done pick for 2026 can provide a major edge.
If you’re searching for reliable one and done picks in the desert, this is the week to strike.
The American Express 2026: Tournament Overview
- Event: The American Express
- Dates: January 22–25, 2026
- Courses: Pete Dye Stadium CourseLa Quinta Country ClubJack Nicklaus Tournament Course
- Purse: $9,200,000
- Defending Champion: Sepp Straka
Set in the warmth and sunshine of the Coachella Valley, The American Express features a three-course rotation that emphasizes aggressive scoring, wedge play, and comfort in pro-am conditions. Winning scores routinely push well past 20-under par, making this a week where elite iron play and birdie conversion are essential when evaluating 2026 One and Done picks.
Best American Express One and Done Pick 2026: Patrick Cantlay
When narrowing down the top golf One and Done picks for The American Express, Patrick Cantlay rises to the top as a high-floor, high-upside option perfectly suited for desert golf.
Why Patrick Cantlay Is an Elite American Express One and Done Pick
- Course Fit & Conditions: Cantlay thrives on shorter setups where precision iron play and birdie chances are abundant.
- California Comfort: A Southern California native, Cantlay has consistently played well in West Coast swing events and desert conditions.
- Elite Scoring Ability: Few players are better at converting birdie opportunities on easy-to-moderate scoring courses.
- Strategic Roster Value: Using Cantlay here allows players to preserve mega-purse superstars for majors and Signature Events later in the season.
Among all PGA American Express One and Done picks for 2026, Cantlay offers one of the safest paths to a top finish while still maintaining legitimate win equity.
Contests to Join on Splash Sports
Once you’ve locked in your American Express One and Done pick, Splash Sports offers multiple ways to turn strategy into serious upside.
The Original One & Done – A $3,500 entry contest featuring $1,001,700 in guaranteed prizes, highlighted by a massive $207,567.73 first-place payout, $155,675.72 for second, and $103,783.81 for third. Players select one golfer for each tournament throughout the season, earning points based on Dollar Winnings, with no golfer allowed to be used more than once. The contest spans six segments and allows up to 5 entries per player, giving participants multiple paths to compete for one of the largest One & Done prize available.
Splash $10K PGA O&D – A $50 entry contest offering $10,035 in guaranteed prizes, ideal for players looking for a season-long One & Done at a lower entry point. Top payouts include $2,007 for first, $1,505.25 for second, and $1,204.20 for third. Standard golf One & Done rules apply: one golfer per tournament, no repeats, Dollar Winnings scoring, and up to 6 entries per player.
Final Thoughts on The American Express One and Done Picks 2026
The American Express is a perfect early-season checkpoint for One and Done strategy. With multiple courses, perfect scoring conditions, and a strong purse, it rewards players who can stay aggressive and rack up birdies.
If you’re targeting smart One and Done picks for The American Express in 2026, Patrick Cantlay delivers the ideal blend of safety, scoring upside, and roster efficiency. He offers win equity without forcing you to sacrifice elite options needed later in the season.
For Splash Sports players looking to stay ahead of the field, this desert stop is an opportunity to separate — and Cantlay is the play to do it.
