International Amateur Preview: Elite Field Set for Innisbrook Resort
12/19/2025 | by McKenzie Steenson of AmateurGolf.com
see also: South Beach International Amateur, Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club
World-class amateurs tackle Innisbrook for the prestigious International Amateur (formerly the South Beach International Am) title
The International Amateur returns this week, welcoming one of the most prestigious global fields in amateur golf to Innisbrook Resort. Formerly known as the South Beach International Amateur (SBIA), the event continues its tradition of identifying the next generation of stars through 72 holes of elite competition.
With its move to the iconic layouts at Innisbrook, the championship remains a critical stop on the winter amateur circuit, drawing top-tier talent from across the globe seeking to finish their year with a marquee victory.
How the Field Is Selected
The International Amateur utilizes a rigorous exemption and eligibility criteria to ensure a world-class field. Invitations and exemptions are extended based on global rankings and performance in major championships, including:
- WAGR Rankings: Top 300 (by Nov 21) and Top 600 (by Oct 21)
- Major Amateurs: Top 16 finishers from the 2025 U.S. and British Amateurs
- Collegiate Excellence: Top 60 Collegiate players (2025) and all NCAA Division I & II National Championship participants
- Global Reach: The top-ranked amateur from any country in the WAGR Top 20
- Elite Juniors: Top 20 worldwide ranked juniors (Exempt) and Top 150 (Eligible)
- USGA/R&A Success: All qualifiers for the 2025 U.S. Junior, Amateur, Mid-Amateur, and British Amateur
- Professional Path: Amateur Section qualifiers for the 2025 U.S. Open
The result is a deep, international field featuring a mix of seasoned collegiate veterans and the world's most promising junior prospects.
Championship Format & Venue
- Format: 72-hole individual stroke play (Round 1 begins December 19th)
- Venue: Innisbrook Resort, Palm Harbor, Florida
- Dates: December 17-22, 2025
- History: Formerly the South Beach International Amateur
Known for its demanding Copperhead Course—home to the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship—Innisbrook provides a stern test of ball-striking. The tournament's move to this venue adds a layer of shot-making requirement and physical endurance to an already grueling week of championship golf.
Recent Context
The championship has recently served as a launchpad for some of the biggest names in the game. In 2024, phenom Miles Russell added his name to the trophy, following in the footsteps of Benjamin James and Luke Clanton. The strength of the field is evidenced by the fact that recent winners have made immediate impacts on the PGA TOUR and at the highest levels of collegiate golf.
Notable Past Champions
- 2024 – Miles Russell
- 2023 – Benjamin James
- 2022 – Luke Clanton
- 2021 – Finigan Tilly
- 2020 – Cole Hammer
A Global Standard in Amateur Golf
Since its inception as the South Beach International Amateur, this event has quickly ascended to become one of the most important dates on the amateur calendar. By attracting players from dozens of countries and nearly every major NCAA program, the International Amateur provides a unique "major" feel during the winter months.
The transition to Innisbrook Resort marks a new chapter for the event, offering a championship-tested venue that matches the pedigree of its participants. With World Amateur Golf Ranking points at a premium, the stakes remain incredibly high for those looking to climb the global standings before the new year.
What to Watch This Week
- Elite Junior Presence: Following Miles Russell's win, watch for the next crop of Top-20 juniors to challenge the college ranks.
- The Innisbrook Test: The resort's famous "Snake Pit" and narrow fairways will demand precision over power.
- Global Leaderboard: Expect a heavy international presence, with top-ranked amateurs from Europe, South America, and Asia represented.
The International Amateur continues to reward those with the mental toughness to navigate a marathon week against the best in the world.
AmateurGolf.com will provide coverage throughout the week, including scoring updates, round recaps, and a complete championship wrap-up.
About the The International Amateur
72-hole event with 36-hole cut. Open to highly ranked amateurs, college players, mid-amateurs and juniors. Non-exempt players must submit a playing resume to be considered for the field.
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