Tournament of Champions
Nelly Korda claims victory in shortened LPGA tournament opener
Reportado por IA Imagem gerada por IA
Nelly Korda secured her 16th LPGA Tour win at the 2026 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, finishing at 13-under par after the event was controversially reduced to 54 holes due to weather. The 27-year-old's third-round 64 proved decisive, edging out Amy Yang by three shots at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club. The decision to end play early drew criticism from players amid improving conditions.
After a winless 2025 season, Nelly Korda has opened 2026 strongly on the LPGA Tour. She won the weather-shortened Tournament of Champions and finished runner-up at both the Founders Cup and the Ford Championship. The world No. 2 now leads several key statistical categories early in the year.
Reportado por IA
The LPGA shortened its season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions to 54 holes due to freezing temperatures in Orlando, drawing criticism for confusion. New commissioner Craig Kessler issued an apology to players, acknowledging poor communication. Nelly Korda claimed victory without playing the final round.
The 2026 LPGA Tour season is set to begin with the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions from January 29 to February 1 at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida. However, three recent major champions—Minjee Lee, Grace Kim, and Hannah Green—have opted out of the event. Their absences highlight travel challenges for Australian players ahead of the Asian swing.