Nelly Korda's Asian absence sparks LPGA debate

Nelly Korda, the world No. 2 golfer, is absent from 19 LPGA events in Asia, prompting debate within the tour. Sponsors are demanding participation from top players amid $7.4 million in prize money on the line. The situation is raising questions about the LPGA's global strategy.

The absence of Nelly Korda from a 19-event Asian swing has ignited discussions in the LPGA community. According to reports, this decision is leaving sponsors frustrated, as they expect the presence of elite competitors to draw audiences and enhance event prestige.

With $7.4 million in total prize money available across these tournaments, the stakes are high for the tour's international expansion efforts. Korda's non-participation is seen by some as prioritizing home-based play, potentially undermining the LPGA's push to establish a stronger foothold in Asia.

The debate highlights tensions between individual player schedules and the collective goals of the tour. While Korda has not commented publicly on her reasons, the controversy underscores the challenges of balancing global commitments with personal and domestic priorities in professional golf.

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Nelly Korda celebrates her 16th LPGA win at the weather-shortened Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, holding the trophy on the green at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club.
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Nelly Korda claims victory in shortened LPGA tournament opener

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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.

Nelly Korda claimed victory in the LPGA's season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, but the event was controversially reduced to 54 holes due to harsh weather in Orlando. The decision to end the tournament early drew criticism from players and observers, highlighting challenges in maintaining a full schedule. Korda, returning to the winner's circle after a winless 2025, secured the title without a final round.

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World No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul will make her debut at the LPGA's season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, joined by No. 2 Nelly Korda and past champion Lydia Ko. The field includes 39 players who won on tour in the past two seasons, marking a larger group than in recent years due to a record 29 winners in 2025. Several top-ranked players, including three Australians, will skip the event to begin their seasons in Asia.

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The PGA Tour is considering significant changes to its schedule, including more events in major US cities and a stronger start to the season. Executive director Lee Smith discussed these plans and addressed the ongoing debate about elevating the Players Championship to major status. The tournament's promotional campaign has sparked discussions among players and analysts.

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Lydia Ko and England's Lottie Woad share the lead at 8-under par after the second round of the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in Orlando. Both players delivered strong performances at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club amid forecasts of extreme cold weather ahead. The LPGA has adjusted the schedule to cope with dropping temperatures.

 

 

 

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