The pro-am begins Thursday, with 156 pros playing with 156 amateurs on three desert courses -- the Pete Dye Stadium Course and Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West and La Quinta Country Club. Here's our look at 10 players to watch when play begins Thursday:

For the third time in his PGA Tour career, Sepp Straka hoisted a trophy at tournament's end. Converting a four-stroke lead at the 54-hole mark into a victory at the 2025 American Express, Straka fended off a crowded chasing pack headlined by Justin Thomas.

Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay and Nick Dunlap Compete at The American Express at PGA West in La Quinta, Calif., – Thursday-Sunday Coverage on GOLF Channel Begins at 4 p.m. ET