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 LPGA's 2026 season began unusually at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions held at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando. On Sunday, officials reduced the event to 54 holes amid record overnight low temperatures that hardened the course, citing risks to player safety. The decision followed an initial delay of the final round and came after celebrities in the pro-am were allowed to continue playing, while professionals did not tee off.
World No. 2 Nelly Korda, who led after a strong 64 on Saturday, won the tournament without striking a shot on Sunday. The move puzzled fans and players alike. LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam, participating as a celebrity, expressed surprise during her round, telling Golfweek, “I don’t know why they’re not playing. There’s pitch marks. I mean, I hit some crispy shots today and the ball even stopped. I am surprised. It’s difficult, it’s cold, but it’s as fair as anything. I told J.R. we can continue.”
Lydia Ko, a local resident at Lake Nona, felt “gutted” by the incompletion. An LPGA official described the choice as ensuring an “optimal competitive environment,” though specifics on the cold's impact were unclear. With the next event set for February 19 in Thailand, a Monday finish might have highlighted Korda's lead more fittingly.
On Tuesday, commissioner Craig Kessler, who joined the LPGA last July, sent a memo to athletes apologizing for the handling. “I made the decision to limit the event to 54 holes, worried that our athletes might be injured given the way record overnight low temperatures hardened the course,” he wrote. Kessler admitted the communication was “not clear or timely enough” and outlined steps like better contingency planning and faster updates to rebuild trust.
The incident tested the tour's relationship with stakeholders, but Kessler emphasized accountability and a bright future ahead.
