French Open Golf Prize Money Breakdown – Who Took the Top Earnings in 2025?
What happens when an American golfer makes history in one of Europe’s most prestigious golf tournaments? The 2025 FedEx Open de France, part of the DP World Tour, answered that question with an unforgettable finale.
Held at Golf de Saint-Nom-La-Bretèche, just outside Paris, the tournament ended with Michael Kim securing a dramatic one-shot victory. But how much did he win, and how was the prize money distributed among the rest of the field? More importantly, what does this say about the state of European golf payouts today?
Let’s explore the French Open golf prize money breakdown in full detail and examine what made the 2025 edition so special.
How Did Michael Kim Win the 2025 French Open Golf Tournament?
In a tightly contested final day, Michael Kim emerged victorious by finishing 16-under-par (268) over four rounds (69-68-66-65). This victory marked his first-ever win on the DP World Tour and made him the first American winner of the French Open in over five decades.
Kim’s performance was a masterclass in composure. On the 71st hole (the 17th), he sank a birdie to take a one-shot lead over Jeong Weon Ko and Elvis Smylie, both of whom were playing near-flawless golf. On the closing par-3 18th, Kim managed to get up and down from a greenside bunker to secure his historic win.
Behind him, Jeong Weon Ko and Smylie both came agonisingly close but couldn’t force a playoff. Koepka, Min Woo Lee, and Guido Migliozzi also posted strong finishes but ultimately couldn’t catch the leader.
What Was the Total Prize Money for the 2025 French Open Golf?
The total prize purse for the 2025 FedEx Open de France stood at $3.25 million, slightly lower than some of the larger DP World Tour or PGA Tour events, but still a significant figure. The winner’s share was $552,500, reflecting a payout of just under 17% of the total pool.
This purse distribution is in line with typical DP World Tour structures, which aim to reward top finishers while ensuring the majority of players who make the cut receive compensation.
The total of 144 players competed, with 77 making the cut after 36 holes and earning prize money.
How Was the Prize Money Distributed Among Top Finishers?
Below is the prize money breakdown for the top 10 finishers at the 2025 French Open:
| Position | Player | Score | Earnings (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Michael Kim | -16 | $552,500 |
| T2 | Elvis Smylie | -15 | $280,475 |
| T2 | Jeong Weon Ko | -15 | $280,475 |
| 4 | Brooks Koepka | -14 | $162,500 |
| T5 | Min Woo Lee | -13 | $107,575 |
| T5 | Guido Migliozzi | -13 | $107,575 |
| T5 | Marcus Armitage | -13 | $107,575 |
| T5 | Kristoffer Reitan | -13 | $107,575 |
| 9 | Jayden Schaper | -11 | $72,800 |
| T10 | Darius Van Driel | -10 | $62,400 |
| T10 | Todd Clements | -10 | $62,400 |
The French Open ensures a reasonable share for all players making the cut, with earnings gradually decreasing down the leaderboard.
Who Were the Notable Performers in the 2025 French Open?
Aside from Kim’s standout performance, a number of players made headlines during the tournament:
- Jeong Weon Ko, the local favourite, pushed Kim until the very end, earning praise for his resilience and crowd-pleasing play.
- Brooks Koepka, a global name, secured solo fourth place with a 14-under performance, demonstrating consistency throughout the weekend.
- Kristoffer Reitan posted the lowest final round of 64 among the top five, tying for fifth and making a late charge.
Meanwhile, Jayden Schaper, Darius Van Driel, and Todd Clements also broke into the top 10 with solid, balanced rounds across all four days.
What Is the Full Final Leaderboard and Prize Distribution?
Below is the complete final leaderboard and prize money breakdown for all players who made the cut at the 2025 FedEx Open de France:
| Pos | Player | Score | R1 | R2 | R3 | R4 | Total | Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Michael Kim | -16 | 69 | 68 | 66 | 65 | 268 | $552,500 |
| T2 | Elvis Smylie | -15 | 69 | 68 | 67 | 65 | 269 | $280,475 |
| T2 | Jeong Weon Ko | -15 | 68 | 68 | 68 | 65 | 269 | $280,475 |
| 4 | Brooks Koepka | -14 | 69 | 68 | 65 | 68 | 270 | $162,500 |
| T5 | Min Woo Lee | -13 | 66 | 68 | 68 | 69 | 271 | $107,575 |
| T5 | Guido Migliozzi | -13 | 68 | 69 | 66 | 68 | 271 | $107,575 |
| T5 | Marcus Armitage | -13 | 64 | 68 | 71 | 68 | 271 | $107,575 |
| T5 | Kristoffer Reitan | -13 | 69 | 70 | 68 | 64 | 271 | $107,575 |
| 9 | Jayden Schaper | -11 | 70 | 68 | 70 | 65 | 273 | $72,800 |
| T10 | Darius Van Driel | -10 | 68 | 70 | 67 | 69 | 274 | $62,400 |
| T10 | Todd Clements | -10 | 70 | 67 | 69 | 68 | 274 | $62,400 |
| T12 | Antoine Rozner | -8 | 68 | 72 | 66 | 70 | 276 | $54,112 |
| T12 | Daniel Brown | -8 | 69 | 69 | 71 | 67 | 276 | $54,112 |
| T14 | Jens Dantorp | -7 | 67 | 69 | 71 | 70 | 277 | $47,775 |
| T14 | Ryan Fox | -7 | 69 | 71 | 69 | 68 | 277 | $47,775 |
| T14 | Niklas Norgaard | -7 | 70 | 67 | 72 | 68 | 277 | $47,775 |
| T17 | Freddy Schott | -6 | 69 | 68 | 68 | 73 | 278 | $40,560 |
| T17 | Mikael Lindberg | -6 | 69 | 67 | 70 | 72 | 278 | $40,560 |
| T17 | Francesco Laporta | -6 | 68 | 70 | 71 | 69 | 278 | $40,560 |
| T17 | Marcel Schneider | -6 | 71 | 70 | 69 | 68 | 278 | $40,560 |
| T17 | Richard Sterne | -6 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 68 | 278 | $40,560 |
| T22 | Ugo Coussaud | -5 | 67 | 71 | 70 | 71 | 279 | $34,287 |
| T22 | Pablo Ereno | -5 | 68 | 71 | 69 | 71 | 279 | $34,287 |
| T22 | Julien Brun | -5 | 69 | 71 | 69 | 70 | 279 | $34,287 |
| T22 | Justin Harding | -5 | 70 | 68 | 72 | 69 | 279 | $34,287 |
| T22 | Calum Hill | -5 | 71 | 70 | 72 | 66 | 279 | $34,287 |
| T22 | Connor Syme | -5 | 71 | 69 | 74 | 65 | 279 | $34,287 |
| T28 | Niklas Lemke | -4 | 70 | 72 | 67 | 71 | 280 | $29,412 |
| T28 | Nathan Kimsey | -4 | 71 | 69 | 70 | 70 | 280 | $29,412 |
| T28 | Sam Bairstow | -4 | 67 | 73 | 71 | 69 | 280 | $29,412 |
| T28 | Romain Langasque | -4 | 71 | 71 | 71 | 67 | 280 | $29,412 |
How Do the Winnings Affect Rankings and Tour Points?
Michael Kim’s win came with more than just prize money. As a DP World Tour member, he earned:
- 835 Race to Dubai points, helping him climb the seasonal leaderboard
- 25.9 Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points, which significantly boosts his international ranking and eligibility for majors
These points are crucial for players seeking entry into elite global tournaments, including The Open Championship and World Golf Championships.
How Does the French Open Prize Fund Compare to Other Global Tournaments?
While the French Open doesn’t offer the massive purses of PGA Tour majors, its $3.25 million prize fund places it among the mid-to-upper tier events on the DP World Tour.
| Tournament | Total Purse | Winner’s Share |
|---|---|---|
| The Masters 2025 | $18 million | $3.24 million |
| U.S. Open 2025 | $20 million | $3.6 million |
| PGA Championship 2025 | $17.5 million | $3.15 million |
| FedEx Open de France 2025 | $3.25 million | $552,500 |
| Alfred Dunhill Links | $5 million | $850,000 |
Compared to flagship events, the French Open still has room to grow, but its international appeal and historical importance continue to attract top talent.
Are Golf Winnings in France Subject to Taxation?
Yes, foreign players earning prize money in France are typically subject to withholding tax of up to 30%. However, taxation treaties (such as between the US and France) can reduce the amount withheld, especially when players file proper documentation.
Key deductions from prize money include:
- Caddie’s share: Normally 10% of the player’s earnings
- Agent or manager fees: Ranging from 5% to 15%
- Travel and lodging expenses
As a result, the net amount received can differ substantially from the gross prize money.
What Comes Next on the DP World Tour?
Following the conclusion of the French Open, players will have a brief rest before heading to Scotland for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. This fan-favourite event combines professional play with amateur celebrities across some of the UK’s most iconic courses.
The Race to Dubai points race continues to heat up, making every upcoming event even more critical for tour hopefuls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total purse for the 2025 French Open Golf?
The total prize fund was $3.25 million USD.
Who won the 2025 French Open?
Michael Kim of the United States won with a score of 16-under-par.
How many players earned prize money?
Out of 144 starters, 77 players made the cut and shared in the prize fund.
How much did the runner-up earn?
Both Elvis Smylie and Jeong Weon Ko earned $280,475 for finishing tied second.
What are Race to Dubai points?
They are season-long points earned on the DP World Tour, used to qualify for the final event in Dubai.
How is golf prize money taxed in France?
Foreign players may be taxed up to 30%, depending on treaty status and deductions.
Is the French Open part of the Rolex Series?
Not currently, but with growing sponsorship and viewership, it may become one in future seasons.
