Later, when I spent time at a resort style course abroad, it was a similar story. Golf lived within a wider experience. You met people by the pool, or at the bar, and only afterwards realised they were also members of the golf course. Golf did not have to be the starting point. It could grow naturally out of everything else that was going on at the resort.

For younger women especially, like myself, that kind of environment is a gentle way in. The setting feels modern and relaxed. There is less sense of walking into “a golf club” and more sense of joining a lifestyle.

So where does that leave the more traditional member clubs that do not have spa facilities, hotel rooms or a long list of other activities on offer? Can they really compete for broader demographics, or are younger women always going to lean towards the resort style option?

Rethinking What A Traditional Club Looks Like

When I came back to the UK this summer and joined Aspley Guise & Woburn Sands Golf Club for lessons, I will admit I had some assumptions. On paper, it is the sort of place I might once have written off as too traditional. I imagined strict dress codes, older members who did things a certain way and not much interest in bringing in younger women who travel a lot, work remotely and are still finding their place in the game. What I actually found was very different.

The atmosphere in the clubhouse was relaxed and friendly. Members smiled and said hello. There was music playing, changing rooms with female products, and a general feeling that people were there to enjoy themselves rather than maintain a strict atmosphere.

One day, I turned up in a short skirt in what was probably too cold for British weather and braced myself for a comment. Instead, I got a few jokes about being brave, some encouragement and no judgment at all. Little moments like that quietly challenge the idea that traditional clubs are automatically stuffy or unwelcoming.

Encouraging New Players Into The Game

Aspley runs a “Journey Into Golf” pathway that is designed to help new players ease in, rather than commit all at once. It starts with coaching, moves through a flexible “New to Golf” stage, and then into a “Get into Golf” membership that sits just before full membership.

On paper, that looks like a fairly standard development programme. In reality, what makes it work is the way the women running it show up for people.

When I spoke to the Aspley Guise Club President Malcolm McGregor, Lady Captain Jane Drake and Ladies Commitee Lead Jo Harrison, they kept coming back to the same themes: connection, community and giving people time to develop a relationship with golf that works for them. Instead of just handing over a leaflet or pointing someone towards the website, they are physically present.

They meet new women in the car park and walk them to the shop so they do not have to come in alone. They organise group sessions and then follow up with WhatsApp chats so people feel connected. They pair beginner golfers with experienced members who are happy to walk them through the first few rounds, offer guidance and answer the small questions that feel too silly to ask a professional.

Those gestures sound simple, but they are powerful. For someone who is new to golf, or coming back after a break, that first experience can be the difference between signing up and never returning.

What Modern Clubs Do Well

I do not think this means modern country clubs or resort courses are doing it wrong. Far from it. At Foxhills, for example, the variety of spaces made it easy to bring friends along who did not play golf at all. You could go for lunch, a walk, or just sit on the terrace and chat. Golf blended into all of that, making the sport feel enticing.

For women who want a full lifestyle offering and are happy to stay mostly within their own age group or ability level, that kind of set up is ideal. Many of the events I joined at Foxhills and at Pitch in London were built around younger women who were relatively new to the game. It felt social and fun.

The difference at a more traditional club is that you are more likely to end up playing with people who are older and more experienced, and that can feel intimidating at first.

Why Playing With Older Members Helped

In Costa Rica at Los Suenos Resort, I often found myself playing with men much older than me, plus the occasional older female member. At first, I found that dynamic quite daunting. They were all longer off the tee, more strategic and more settled in how they carried themselves around the course.

Looking back, that experience was one of the most valuable parts of my golf journey so far. Playing with experienced golfers forces you to pay attention to course management. You learn when to talk, when to focus, how to recover from a bad shot and move on.

At Aspley, that same benefit is present, but within a structure that protects newer players from feeling overwhelmed. The older members are not just there by default. They are actively choosing to support newcomers. They turn up to the taster sessions, volunteer to play with new women and genuinely want to integrate them. That intent is what makes the difference.

So Which Would I Recommend?

When Golf Monthly's women’s golf editor asked me which type of club I would actually recommend to a younger woman, my honest answer is that both have their place.

If you are drawn to facilities and a setting that feels chic, a modern country club or resort course can be a great introduction to golf. It feels light, flexible and easy to fit around a busy life.

But if you are looking for somewhere to feel valued and learn from people who have been playing for decades, I think traditional clubs deserve more credit than they often get. Provided the club culture is right, they can offer a depth of support that modern facilities alone cannot match.

At Aspley, the women leading the “Journey Into Golf” pathway are not waiting for someone else to fix things. They are the ones standing in the car park, sending the WhatsApp messages, checking in after a tough round and celebrating the small wins. That kind of involvement from members, captains and presidents is where traditional clubs can really compete.

Giving Traditional Clubs A Chance

It is easy to assume that older clubs are automatically too strict or too serious for younger members. I thought that once. Spending time at Aspley has shown me that a traditional golf club can still feel relaxed and welcoming.

If anything, the experience has reminded me that what matters most is not the building, but the people inside it. For women, and for anyone new to the game, the feeling that a place genuinely wants you there is often most meaningful.

So if you are a younger golfer deciding between a resort style club and a more traditional one, my advice would be this: look past the facilities for a moment and pay attention to how the members behave. That is where you will see what the journey into golf at that club really looks like.

If you don't want your shopping spree to end at golf shoes, check out our Cyber Monday golf deals live blog which has all the latest and greatest discounts.

This is not your average women's golf shoe, it’s disruptive! The colour mix, including lucid lemon and bright pink sole stripes, is busy, but I genuinely like it.

The upper is complex: a multi-layer knit with a mesmerising zig-zag pattern under a mesh top layer. Technology is everywhere, especially in the outsole featuring a 3D TORSION plate for enhanced stability and fit, preventing midfoot bend and heel slippage.

I wore them straight out of the box, they felt lightweight and flexible, and they held up against wet conditions, keeping my feet dry and cleaning easily.

The upper layers provided great comfort, and I felt stable over every shot with no rubbing. The TWISTGRIP outsole with its lug shape is sturdy and locked my feet to the ground - no slippage, similar to the spiked Tour360 24.

My tip: go up half a size. Overall, this spikeless shoe is exciting, performs exceptionally well, and is one of the most comfortable golf shoes for women. If the Codechaos is not for you I have also included a couple of models below nicely discounted as well.

New Balance has a massive sports history, and the 574 Greens V2 golf shoe takes inspiration from their classic Court Classics model, promising comfort and durability.

With its low profile, it looks just like a running shoe. The upper is waterproof microfibre leather, backed by a two-year warranty. I’m interested to see how that suede-like material handles serious winter weather and how easily it cleans!

In terms of comfort, the CUSH+ insole and dropped midsole made for a very easy walk over 18 holes, proving lightweight and highly breathable. The NDurance rubber outsole is flexible and offers plenty of grip via numerous nubs. I found the traction more than satisfactory, and I appreciate the extra support provided by the heel counter and the toe cap extension that guards against wear.

If you’re looking for a fashion-forward, comfortable, and versatile golf shoe that delivers on performance, the 574 Greens V2 is definitely a solid option.

The Skechers GoGolf Jasmine 2 is a brilliant all-rounder, offering the perfect blend of comfort and performance. They look and feel like you're slipping your feet into athletic marshmallows, helping you float around the course!

This shoe has a smart, traditional look combined with trainer-like comfort. Attractive gold accents on the sole and the Skechers logo make them subtly classy. I especially love the white/gold colorway, which is a quick wardrobe win and performs brilliantly.

The GRIPFLEX spikeless TPU outsole is peppered with grip, complemented by five soft, replaceable Pulsar spikes. The grip is beautifully effective and the replaceable spikes ensure a decent lifespan.

From the moment you slip them on, the pillow-soft Reactive Move Foam insole is like a hug for your soles. I wore these on hard, hilly courses in the heat, and I can confidently say they are among the most comfortable women’s golf shoes I’ve ever played in. Even in mid-20s temperatures, my feet stayed cool and did not overheat, behaving like a highly breathable running shoe.

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The Srixon Soft Feel Lady delivers exactly what its name promises: a super-soft feel, like a knife sliding through butter, which we loved off the putter face. While soft balls can struggle on slow greens, sometimes having to give putts "more oomph" leads to a better, more committed stroke.

Despite the name, this ball isn't just about feel; it boosts distance too. Inside, the Fast Layer Core is soft in the centre and progressively firmer on the outside. This clever, proven formula works hard to increase launch angle, adding a crucial few yards that can be a real game-changer on tough driving holes. While the "Lady" label seems outdated, the pros outweigh the cons, and it hits the mark as one of the best golf balls.

The Olivera is a fashionable sneaker style shoe, and is another model for women to consider as one of the best spikeless golf shoes. It's very colorful, and while you might think this is a mishmash, the combination of colors work really well for a modern looking golf shoe. It’s made in premium soft leather with the tongue and toe box in durable material, immaculate stitching, plus it also comes with a waterproof bootie system.

The midsole, outsole and sole is where the technology is packed into this shoe to deliver performance. You cannot help but notice the heel-strike at the back which juts out. This is designed to provide golfers with more stability when swinging and walking, while the toe counter at the front will protect the material on the top of the shoe through the downswing.

Ecco's Biom H5 features a rugged design, inspired by the wild nature of the Scottish Highlands. A unique feature is the seamless knit sock that replaces the tongue, promoting a secure and modern fit that molds to your foot.

Wearing the Biom H5 is like putting a glove on your foot. Thanks to Ecco’s Biom natural motion technology, the arch support is amazing, keeping your foot incredibly secure and stable. One of the most comfortable golf shoes for women, an absolute dream to play in and required zero breaking in. The Terra Traction System outsole provides fantastic grip, ensuring your foot stays comfortable and dry. These are the perfect shoes for superior performance and comfort all year round.

The Paradym Ai Smoke Max Fast hybrid features the standout Ai Smart Face. This was created using real player data and machine learning to produce huge sweet spots all over the clubface, guaranteeing effective strikes even on mishits.

This hybrid has a beautiful dark grey matte finish (or 'smokey' look) complemented by a sharp turquoise accent. The grip feels buttery, soft, and comfortable and with a shallow profile, it sits perfectly flush behind the ball.

Off the fairway and out of the light rough, it’s effortless to get the ball airborne. Shots flew a consistently good distance with a penetrating ball flight. Given I know I didn't strike the centre every time, the results prove this club is ultra-forgiving - the Ai Smart Face definitely works and it's one of the best women's hybrid clubs on the market.

All season, players have been battling it out to reach the concluding Spanish stop in order to try and become the LET Order of Merit champion.

Heading into the final day of competition this term, only two players are capable of making that happen - Shannon Tan and Mimi Rhodes.

The Singaporean pro had a lead of over 211 points heading into this week as a result of two wins and eight top-10s this term, and with 500 points available for the winner at Real Guadalhorce Club de Golf, victory here would seal it for Tan.

Meanwhile, a fourth success of the season for Rhodes may well snatch the season-long prize away from her young rival.

No matter which way around they finish, one will earn the €75,000 for winning the Order of Merit while whoever comes second will bank €50,000.

Only the top-three earn bonus money after all is said and done, with a check for €25,000 possibly heading the way of either South Africa's Casandra Alexander or Switzerland's Chiara Tamburlini.

In the short-term, there is prize money on offer for each of the 72 professionals involved in the 75-player field at the Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open de España this week as there was no cut during the four rounds.

Like last year, the total purse equals €700,000 (circa $811,000) and there is a check for €105,000 (almost $122,000) awaiting the champion. Last year, Carlota Ciganda reigned supreme in her home country.

The runner-up is set to earn €63,000 ($73,000) while everyone else in the top-21 should collect over €10,000 ($11,600) for their week's work.

Below is the maximum prize money payout for each position at the 2025 Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open de España.

Andalucia Open De Espana Prize Money Breakdown

Having previously tested this model, I know the XXIO 13 is a brilliant performer and one of the best golf irons for women.

What's more, with a significant discount of 23%, women with a mid-to-high handicap and a slow-to-moderate swing speed will absolutely reap the benefits of this impressive set.

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To begin with, the aesthetic is both modern and luxurious, as light blue/turquoise tones extend to a unique swirl pattern on the 35g graphite shaft.

The immediate confidence they provide is striking. The irons are really well balanced, making them feel effortless to swing.

This ease is engineered through superior technology, including a strategic counterweight placed under the grip that aids a smooth takeaway, ultimately promoting consistent contact and rhythm throughout the set.

New grooves work with XXIO’s unique Rebound Frame technology to create a "spring within a spring" effect, helping deliver increased ball speed without requiring extra effort.

The high-strength titanium face features optimized weighting, allowing golfers to consistently strike the ball with a high launch and very pleasing distance. In testing, we found that the dispersion was notably tight, and they offered excellent control, even with short irons around the green.

The best thing about these irons is that they deliver effortless power and forgiveness, instantly boosting confidence on the course. While they come with a high price tag, the XXIO 13 Irons are a worthwhile long-term investment to give your iron play a serious boost.

The World No.2 may have finished the year without winning a tournament, but instead of golfing silverware in her trophy cabinet she has a new piece of jewelry to celebrate.

Korda took to Instagram to post a series of slick engagement photos along with her new fiance, who is somewhat of a mystery man.

Korda is famously very protective of her private life, with hardly anything known about the man she'll now be marrying.

It's a bright ending off the course to a disappointing year on it for Korda, who won seven times during a record year in 2024, but failed to win a tournament in 2025.

That's despite, bizarrely, improving on a lot of her stats for 2025, but she just failed to get over the line when it mattered - finishing as a runner-up twice.

The 27-year-old finished in the top-10 seven times in 19 tournaments and was inside the top-25 six times. She also didn't miss a single cut, but never managed to go home with the trophy.

That's in stark contrast to her stunning 2024, when she won five times in a row at the start of the year and six times in seven starts when looking unbeatable.

Along with a second Major at the Chevron Championship, Korda went on to claim both the Rolex Player of the Year and Annika Major Award - which is handed out to the Major champion that performed best in all five of the biggest events.

Not winning this year will have really stung, but getting engaged will no doubt lift the mood and put a positive spin on the year.

She'll now have to add wedding planning to her golfing preparation ahead of the 2026 campaign when she'll be chasing a return to winning ways.

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The Italian brand Duca del Cosma always does their utmost to produce a trendsetting range of golf shoes that perform as good as they look.

In my opinion, the style of the Alesi shoe is as near to trainer-like as you can get without looking too bulky. It has a chic, feminine appearance set off by the wedge platform sole and the navy and light blue jacquard print.

Look closely, and you'll see the print subtly features the 'C' for Cosma, similar to other luxury brands. Made in soft Italian Nappa leather, it feels comfortable to the touch, and subtle detailing includes shiny silver eyelets printed with ‘Duca del Cosma.’ You even get a choice of laces to customize the look!

I particularly liked the raised profile; they felt compact and comfortable, securing my feet in all the right places while still allowing them to breathe over 18 holes.

I'm a regular size 6 (39) and they suited me perfectly, though I would advise women who need a wide fitting to try before they buy, as they are a fairly narrow fit.

As for performance, I couldn’t fault the grip and traction of the lightweight spikeless Airplay sole. Even when it was damp underfoot, the shoes delivered impressive stability. These shoes are waterproof and, when you combine fashion and performance, the Alesi definitely makes the list of best women’s golf shoes.

My first impression of the FootJoy Pro/SLX was that this is a "proper" golf shoe, exceptionally well-made, promising both comfort and stability. This is thanks to visible design features like an exposed heel stabiliser and a side wall TPU wrap, engineered to control lateral and upper foot movement during the swing.

The design is clean and modern, hitting a semi-sporty note as one of the best women's golf shoes. Constructed with premium leather, comfort is an outstanding feature. The molded Ortholite Fitbed felt great immediately, and it will only improve as it molds to your foot over a few rounds. Also, the StratoFoam midsole gave a noticeable spring in my step.

Performance-wise, I was impressed. This shoe is packed with traction technology and easily stood up to testing on wet and slippery ground.

I felt stable and in control on every shot, it's worth noting that I usually wear a size 6, but found that a half-size down (5.5) fit me better in this model.

The Gallivan2r combines high fashion and performance for that unmistakably modern and stylish look. This model blends the classic design of the Gallivanter shoe with the comfort technology of the MG4+.

The first thing I noticed about the Gallivan2r was its classic and more understated style, particularly in the all-over black. It’s one of the most classy-looking shoes I’ve seen this year, featuring a patent-type toe and a shiny, rigid black heel counter.

I haven’t always been a big fan of kilties, but I must admit I really like it on this model, as it blends nicely and cleverly highlights the brand’s embossed logo.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a G/Fore shoe without a splash of fun, which is found on the sole with nubs in a variety of vibrant colors.

While the leather doesn't feel instantly soft like some competitors, these are nicely cushioned and over 18 holes, I found the Gallivan2R to be incredibly comfortable. It felt true to size and snug, which I actually prefer for compact stability.

One of the best things is the unique massaging insole. Once you've got used to the sensation underfoot, it's a feature most women will love.

I was also impressed by the year-round performance, specifically the grip, thanks to the G/Pod cleat system. I found it to be reliable, and the shoe is lightweight, making walking in wet, muddy conditions feel much easier. Plus, the black color easily wipes clean!

Whether you’re walking, running, or playing golf, Skechers has always prioritised comfort, and the Go Golf Elite 6 Slip-ins rank among our most comfortable golf shoes for women.

I’d heard so much about the Slip-ins feature and was genuinely surprised by the hands-free design. Being able to slide your foot straight in without bending down is a small luxury, even if you do need to bend down to tie up the laces!

Once on, they feel secure thanks to the heel pillow, which gently hugs your foot and keeps it in place. If you have problem feet, you’ll really appreciate the removable arch fit insole that provides soft, podiatrist-approved support by molding to your foot.

I found the cushioning impressively lightweight. It almost feels like wearing a high-performance trainer rather than a traditional golf shoe. The overall fit is slightly on the narrow side, though it worked fine for me.

Style-wise, they lean into a sporty, performance aesthetic, which might not appeal to everyone, but I liked the subtle branding and the unusual periwinkle color. It’s also a nice bonus that these shoes are waterproof and made with recycled materials.

Performance-wise, it was very solid, as the low-profile outsole features GRIPFLEX technology to ensure traction and stability, while offering enough flexibility to feel well balanced over your shots.

These shoes tick a lot of boxes. They are easy to wear, easy to clean, and excel in comfort for those long days on the course.

Olivera 2 is a sassy-looking shoe that blurs the line between high fashion and high-performing golf gear. It looks great and is among some of the best women’s golf shoes out there right now.

The metallic rose gold Nappa leather is glamorous without being overly reflective or patent, catching the sunlight beautifully.

Details like the stamped logo, copper eyelets, and the choice of cream or ballet pink laces add a large dose of customization and luxury.

The wide, chunky sole is extremely fashionable and instantly boosts confidence. Comfort-wise, the soft leather inside means they fit like slippers from the first try-on.

They are waterproof, functional, and smart for après-golf, adding a sprinkling of fun to any outfit.

Performance is impressive too. The Airplay 15 Smart Sole provides fantastic stability. The rubber nubs cover the sole to ensure grip and balance in every direction, which is fantastic for hilly courses.

Finally, the offset medial toe bumper protects the leather from scuffs. These shoes are a brilliant investment that deliver style and function both on and off the course.

The PGA Tour and the LPGA Tour are both done until 2026 and the holidays are right around the corner, but the golfing circus continues to roll on regardless. And, this week, it's all about money.

OK, so there's rarely a week where money isn't the key subject in golf, but it's especially true over the coming days as a TV classic which relies on dollars is returning and the DP World Tour is operating a cool incentive at its first event of the new season.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest prize money payouts is on the line as the Ladies European Tour comes to a close and the PGA Tour has recently announced a new financial support program.

Check out some of the biggest storylines from around the world of golf this week below.

THE SKINS GAME RETURNS

For the first time in 17 years, The Skins Game returns to TV. A format once played by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Lee Trevino and Fred Couples (not all together, I might add) will feature Keegan Bradley, Shane Lowry, Tommy Fleetwood and Xander Schauffele in 2025.

Kicking off Black Friday on Amazon Prime at 9am ET, the four players will start with $1 million each and lay it all on the line as the 'reverse purse' makes its debut.

The return of The Skins Game is taking place on the Big Cat course at Panther National, designed by Nicklaus and Justin Thomas. The latter was due to be involved but has since undergone back surgery and was replaced by Lowry.

$1M PAR 3 IN PLAY AS NEW DP WORLD TOUR SEASON BEGINS

The 2025-26 DP World Tour season begins this week with the BMW Australian PGA Championship at Royal Queensland Golf Club in Brisbane.

Hometown hero Cam Smith is one of nine LIV golfers in the field, with some of the other players involved having competed at the DP World Tour Championship only a fortnight ago.

And while everyone is hoping to make a winning start to the season while banking a big check, fans in attendance could also earn something, too.

The Dabble Party Hole - a.k.a the par-3 17th - is set to feature a $1 million payout to all those inside the stands if and when a pro makes a hole-in-one during any of the four competition rounds.

THE LET SEASON REACHES ITS CONCLUSION

In the same week as the DP World Tour begins, the Ladies European Tour is coming to its conclusion. The final tournament of the season is the Andalucia Open de Espana, which - in turn - will decide who which young star wins the Order of Merit.

Heading into the finale, Shannon Tan tops the standings by 219 points from Mimi Rhodes after claiming two wins and eight top-10s this year. Meanwhile, Rhodes has three victories and five top-10s.

There is 500 points up for grabs for the winner in Spain as a field of 75 players (64 members and 11 invites) battles it out over four days of no-cut action for the 700,000 euro payout.

Realistically, Rhodes either needs to win or come second at Real Guadalhorce Club de Golf in order to put severe pressure on Tan, who would otherwise only need to finish inside the top-45 if Rhodes is third or worse.

PGA TOUR LAUNCHES NEW FINANCIAL-SUPPORT PROGRAMS

According to Golf Channel's Brentley Romine, the PGA Tour is introducing two new financial-support packages starting next season.

The first is called the Member Support Program, which will give $150,000 to those players who finished 126th or lower in the previous season's FedEx Cup points list.

Pros will be eligible for this stipend as long as they have played 12 events across the PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour and will not have to repay the difference if they don't reach the $150,000 earnings mark.

Meanwhile, the second program is called the Pathways Player Achievement Grant, which will give players ranked 21-75 in the previous year's Korn Ferry Tour points list, the leading 10 players in the PGA Tour Americas points list and the top-five eligible players out of PGA Tour University $15,000 grants at the start of the year.

They can use this money for whatever they wish, but it is mean to help with travel and accommodation costs throughout the season.

The money for these financial support packages has come from the Earnings Assurance Program, which shares $500,000 with each fully exempt PGA Tour member at the beginning of each season. After the PGA Tour reduced the number of fully exempt cards from 125 to 100, the circuit decided to channel the funds it had kept aside to other sources.

ELSEWHERE

• Also per Brentley Romine, the Korn Ferry Tour is set to permit distance-measuring devices for the entire 2026 season while adopting the revised pace-of-place policy it implemented early last year
• On the Asian Tour, the Bharath Classic 2025 Gujarat in India marks the penultimate event of the season
• Scotland's Cameron Adam makes his professional debut at the Australian PGA Championship. Adam topped the R&A's Global Amateur Pathway rankings and earned a DP World Tour card as a result
• Minjee Lee won her fourth Greg Norman medal - handed out to the best Australian golfer that year - at the Australian PGA awards. But as she couldn't be at the actual ceremony to accept, her brother Min Woo Lee attended instead and entertained the crowd with a speech typical of a sibling

• The USGA has invited 12 players to attend a practice session at Bel-Air Country Club in LA ahead of the 2026 Curtis Cup. The practice session is marked for Jan. 16-18 and will feature the likes of Anna Davis, Jasmine Koo, Catherine Park, Asterisk Talley and Avery Weed
• Australia's Anthony Quayle has employed Tiger Woods' former caddie Steve Williams as his bagman for the first two events of the new DP World Tour season
• Joost Luiten finally landed a spot in the Nedbank Golf Challenge following his criticism of the qualifying list, but he still called out the DP World Tour for being 'inconsistent'

I was keen to sit down with her and find out how a focus on modernity and diversity has fuelled such massive, profitable growth.

"I was an athlete growing up, and I swam in college, so to be able to combine my retail experience with my love for sports, it was perfect," recalls Spiegel. She joined the company over a decade ago to run merchandising before being appointed President in 2022.

Since then, the growth has been nothing short of astonishing. Spiegel shares that when she started, the company was growing, but not profitably at the time. After a few years of the team putting the right structure and organisation in place, the trajectory changed and Spiegel cites this turnaround and seeing the company grow profit as one of her most rewarding achievements.

Store support centre staff has grown from 30-something people to about 200 today, a foundation that allowed PGA TOUR Superstore to capitalise fully on the pandemic-era boom. "Since COVID, we’ve more than doubled our business," she says, a feat achieved through growth in existing stores, not just new ones.

“The beautiful thing about it is not just our growth... is that the golf industry’s maintained that. It has not gone backwards. We’re seeing record numbers in golf participation.”

The question of challenges faced in the male-dominated industry is one Spiegel is asked a lot. She reveals that she was the only woman on the leadership team for a long time and when she first attended meetings, it was a little intimidating.

“I was the only woman in the room, but I always reminded myself, ‘I’m here because of my retail background and my experience,’ and then I made a big effort to start playing and to really, really learn the sport."

While golf is still male-dominated, that is changing within the organisation. The senior leadership team now features four women, and store support is close to 50% female representation.

Still, the need for diversity is a priority, particularly for customer-facing roles. "We do need more female fitters," she says, wanting the associate base to reflect the growing female golf population.

Spiegel is particularly excited about who is driving this growth. "The largest segment of golfers in the US is young adults, 18 to 34, with the youth category and people of color being the fastest-growing segments," adding that this shift moves away from old stereotypes. "It was a middle-aged white man’s sport, but it's changing."

This dramatic demographic shift is what Spiegel mentions as one of the biggest changes she has witnessed over the last five years, along with the subsequent "cool factor" the sport now has.

The modernisation of golf is perhaps most visible in the apparel business. Women’s golf fashion is very large for PGA TOUR Superstore, doing a disproportionately high percentage of the industry's business, particularly in their resort stores.

This success is directly tied to the store’s depth of brands and sizes and its commitment to the customer. "Female customers come into our stores and are like, ‘Oh my gosh,’" says Spiegel, who also explains the need to stay current. "A young girl doesn't want a 17-inch skirt... she wants something a little shorter."

This retail modernity often clashes with club tradition. Spiegel, who belongs to a private club in Atlanta, laughs as she describes advising older friends who complain about modern apparel. "Look at what they wear on tour. You guys need to lighten up a little bit," she tells them.

While she acknowledges the emerging trend of crossover golf lifestyle apparel, Spiegel insists that the core of the women’s business is still golf. "You’re never going to see 50% of our women’s assortment as lifestyle," she says.

The rise of off-course golf at places like Top Golf and Five Iron has equally transformed participation, with the store heavily leaning into the technology space. The company is leveraging the off-course trend, which contributed to a record 47.2 million Americans playing either on-course or off-course in 2024.

The strategy is to make in-home simulation affordable and accessible to fit any space and budget, recognising that leagues, like TGL, drive a visible spike in their in-home simulation business when they air.

Currently operating 80 stores across 30 states, the company's ambition is clearly set far beyond its immediate goal. "We're looking at that 100-store mark, but we're not going to stop at 100. There’s still a significant amount of white space available in the US," Spiegel confirms.

Under her guidance, the retail giant is actively leading the way into a future where the game is more accessible, more relaxed, and growing faster than ever before.

Setting Goals Is The Easy Part

Setting goals is fun, they provide meaning and purpose and give you that instant surge of excitement and optimism for the pending new and improved version of your game. The trouble is writing ‘break 90’ or ‘hit longer drives’ can make you feel like you have already achieved them.

The real challenge isn’t dreaming big but building the habits and actions that carry you from the excitement of January into the reality of July.

Less Is More

You went too big! We are told to dream big and shoot for the stars, but from my experience when it comes to setting goals, it’s best to opt for stepping stones rather than huge milestones.

Aim to break your goals for the year down into quarters, as what you work on throughout the seasons will likely look different. Ask yourself, what I can do over the next 12 weeks to help me achieve this goal and then review and plan your next quarter.

You’re Not Realistic

Now this is a biggie and is something we are all likely guilty of. The goals people often set themselves while sitting comfortably do not reflect the reality of the work that their future selves will have to do.

It’s no good saying you want to be the best golfer in the county if you are not even the best golfer in your club. Just as it’s no good saying you want to be able to drive the ball 250 yards when you have a swing speed of 80mph.

That’s not to say you are incapable of hitting the ball further, you just need to have a different strategy to make marginal gains to improve your distance, like firstly working on your efficiency, then your speed and striking.

Misplaced Focus

You lost sight of the purpose of trying to improve, which is to play better golf, and playing better golf ultimately means shooting lower scores.

As mentioned above, a common goal is to hit the ball further. Let’s say you gain some yardage, now what? Are you going to be able to convert that into hitting more greens and lowering your scores?

Think about your whole game and where you’re losing shots. Would your time be better spent working on your chipping and putting?

Focus is also lost when comparing yourself to others, which again is a waste of time and energy. Our golf swings are unique, and real progress comes when you learn to work with what you’ve got, rather than what you think you should be doing.

Systems Create Outcomes

All goals but no process. Let’s say you set the goal to practice three times a week through the winter months, but practice day rolls around and it’s cold, you’re tired after work and you don’t feel like it. That is completely normal, which is why you need a system in place.

Checking the weather the night before and packing appropriate warm clothing can remove that friction point. Having a practice session plan of 30 minutes minimum means your session is achievable.

Removing guesswork to your practice and planning properly are essential tools to develop, and all tie in with focusing on the small things that compound to make the big differences.

Your Environment Didn’t Support Your Goals

You can’t grow flowers in the wrong soil and if you have a highly demanding job and family commitments, making big improvements may not be possible right now. Consider your environment and if it supports your goals or makes achieving them more difficult. Then look at what you can change.

If your club has limited practice facilities you will need to find somewhere that has what you need and is convenient for you to visit. It may also be a case of right now you have a lot on in life that takes priority, but that likely won’t always be the case and when the time is right you will have more flexibility and opportunity to curate the right environment that supports your goals.

Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable

You bought the best women's golf clubs, you spent money on lessons, but there was one vital ingredient missing, work! Like a chick pecking out of its shell or a butterfly struggling to emerge from its chrysalis, it is the strength of the struggle that prepares them for life in the outside world.

To improve at anything, especially golf, there has to be a level of discomfort as you work on things that you find difficult, as that’s how you level up. Get nervous in matches, play in more of them to get used to feeling wobbly on 3-foot pressure putts. Practice having to make twenty in a row before you can leave the practice putting green. Embrace the nerves, embrace the discomfort that comes with true progress.

I’m a big fan of goal setting. Having aspirations for your life, work and hobbies isn’t just about productivity it’s about striving to achieve, which I believe is good for the soul.

Remember to keep things fun. If chasing your goals starts to feel like a chore or too much, change things up and create goals that excite and motivate you, because as frustrating a game as golf can be it is meant to be fun!

Sure, most felt she would be unlikely to replicate that septet of successes again, but the odds on Korda failing to lift a trophy at all were extremely slim at the start of 2025.

Then, when she finished second by two strokes to A Lim Kim at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions - following a blistering charge towards the end - to start the season, Korda's play suggested it was only a matter of time until professional win number 21 arrived on the scene.

However, as difficult as it is to believe, Korda did in fact go winless at individual events throughout 2025.

Twice a runner-up from 19 starts, the 27-year-old populated the top-10 at tournaments on seven other occasions and was inside the top-25 six times. She also didn't miss a single cut, but there was never a trophy at the end of the week.

HOW DID NELLY KORDA NOT WIN IN 2025?

How Korda went from winning what felt like every week to not triumphing at all is even more difficult to explain when some of her game's statistics are taken into account.

In 2024, the Bradenton, Florida-born pro gained 0.87 strokes off the tee while enjoying an average driving distance of 269.79 yards - ranked 20th on the LPGA Tour. Fast forward a year and Korda had gained 0.94 strokes off the tee, mainly as a result of adding almost five yards on to her average driving distance (274.58 yards) which put her eighth.

Similarly, at the other end of each hole, Korda noticeably improved on the greens. In terms of SG: Putting, she increased her numbers from 0.41 last year to 0.60 this term while Korda managed to take half a stroke off in the 'average putts per round' category, moving from 30.02 in 2024 to 29.54 in 2025.

Overall, her scoring average dropped marginally, too, from 69.56 to 69.44. That was arguably even more impressive given Korda played 14 more rounds this season compared to last (60 - 2024, 74 - 2025).

Fuelling the drop in scoring average was 335 occasions of birdie or better compared to just 258 during her seven-win campaign.

THE STATS DON'T LIE...

However, there were also multiple areas where Korda regressed in 2025 which go a long way to at least partially explaining why she wasn't able to cross the finish line first.

While her driving distance increased, Korda's accuracy off the tee did not. She found the fairway 75.75% of the time last season, but that fell to 72.22% in the subsequent campaign.

Other statistical categories that saw a dip included GIR % (76.02 - 74.49), greens-hit-from-the-rough % (59.28 - 53.82) - which in turn had wider knock-on effects as Korda's driving accuracy was down - and ball striking (4 - 15).

But, arguably the most obvious indicator of Korda's struggles relate to the key Strokes Gained categories. She sank from 1.88 to 1.63 in terms of 'Tee To Green', from 0.59 to 0.56 on 'Approach' and plummeted from 0.42 to just 0.13 'Around The Green.'

All told, Korda's SG: Total dropped from a circuit-leading 2.84 in 2024 to 2.28 in 2025 - still enough to place her third out of all LPGA Tour pros.

THE RISE OF JEENO THITIKUL

And away from the cold, hard statistics involving Korda, there was the form of the woman who replaced her as World No.1, Jeeno Thitikul, to take into account.

The 22-year-old was often right behind her American rival in 2024, but the Thai star took her own game to new heights this year and won four times worldwide as a result of a sharper and leaner style of play.

Although Thitikul's putting held steady overall, she improved in all other areas tee to green and consequently set a new all-time LPGA Tour scoring record to win the Vare Trophy.

Ultimately, it wasn't as though Korda's lack of success was down to a complete loss of form and confidence in 2025 - far from it. She improved in certain areas while dipping marginally in others. It may well be argued that she was simply out played...

ANALYSIS

I’m as surprised as anyone else that Nelly Korda is winless this season. When asked at the end of last year for my predictions for 2025, I strongly believed she would continue her dominant run. While I didn't expect the same amazing fashion as 2024, I was certain she would retain her World No. 1 title.

Naturally, nine top-10 finishes cannot be overlooked, and her stats confirm that certain areas of her game have actually improved since last season. In my view, it’s the accuracy of her approach and short game shots that previously set her up for a sure-bet birdie or easy par that has been inconsistent. Plus, she has definitely struggled at times to convert putts.

Then there’s the mindset factor. Korda is renowned for her laid-back swing and personality, but she’s only human, and no one would want to win more than her.

I suspect that as the season wore on and the victories weren't materialising, she subconsciously felt the increasing pressure to lift a trophy.

This week, we're discussing whether the PGA Tour should remove conditional status cards, if Jeeno Thitikul is the best player without a Major and is Joost Luiten right to feel aggrieved at his Nedbank Golf Challenge snub?

Join in the conversation by leaving your thoughts in the comment box below this article.

The FedEx Cup Fall wrapped up on Sunday with 100 players keeping their PGA Tour cards for 2026 and 25 others being given 'conditional status' next term. Should 'conditional status' still exist or should the PGA Tour remove that exemption category moving forward?

To be honest with you, I still don’t really know what ‘conditional status’ means on the PGA Tour - other than the fact that is is a lower level than regular members and doesn’t offer as many starts. There should have been more drama about finishing 101st. It should mean zero status, not conditional, in my opinion.

If you’re not in the top 100, you’re out - otherwise the drama lessens. If a Premier League team or a LIV golfer finishes in the relegation zone they are gone for the next season, it’s as simple as that.

On the PGA Tour it doesn’t quite seem that way yet, so I think it’s an area to be improved upon.

Personally, I would not be against the PGA Tour removing conditional-status cards moving forward.

Players who are in that category are largely there because they haven't performed well in PGA Tour events during the previous season and I'm not sure what they offer over an in-form or up-and-coming Korn Ferry Tour or DP World Tour pro?

If you lose your status, you should face a clean drop down. That way, pro golf rewards in-form players over out-of-favor names just hoping for a change in fortunes.

I don't think the PGA Tour should do away with conditional status, especially when finishing between the top 100 and 125 is still, looking at the overall picture, an impressive feat.

We make the argument about Luiten and consistency being rewarded, so why should it not apply here? Players in that category are punished with fewer starts than those with full PGA Tour status, but it should be a driver for them to play well in those events, thus gaining their playing status back on the top circuit. Overall, no, I don't think we should get rid of it.

Jeeno Thitikul won the CME Group Tour Championship to claim a fourth victory of 2025. Is the World No.1 now the best golfer, male or female, yet to win a Major?

Many will point to Tommy Fleetwood as the best golfer yet to win a Major, or perhaps Charley Hull, but I think Thitikul is undoubtedly the best yet to get over the line in one of the top-tier events.

She has been a world-beater for years now and has been head-and-shoulders clear at the top of the women’s game in 2025. She has also been World No.1 in two separate spells.

Fleetwood would be in second place for me after a phenomenal year himself. Both have the game to be Major champions in 2026. I think Jeeno is more likely to do so, though.

They're both phenomenal players in their own right and each has enjoyed an incredible season, but it's ultimately a case of World No.1 vs World No.4. So, yes, Jeeno Thitkul is the best golfer in the world yet to win a Major.

I think both could well do it in 2026, although it should be slightly tougher for Fleetwood, you'd have thought. Thitikul has been in the arena of contending on Major Sundays multiple times in her career while Fleetwood still has something to learn, I feel.

Nevertheless, it's not unrealistic to believe they could both be ticked off this list in 12 months' time.

Given her World No.1 tag, and the last few years she has compiled, I'd lean on the side of yes, Thitikul is the best player without a Major.

However, I will throw Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton and Patrick Cantlay into that equation, due to the fact that they have also claimed a similar amount of trophies, albeit over a longer period, which is why you could argue they're more relevant names.

For me, winning that number of events and rising to World No.1 in a short period is impressive, but the longevity factor of the men's trio makes this a very close call between some great players.

It's hard to present an argument that the world's best player isn't the best player in the world to never have lifted a Major trophy.

Thitikul won three times on the LPGA Tour in 2025 and came so close to her maiden Major at the Evian Championship, where only an improbable chip-in from Grace Kim prevented her from getting the job done.

She's enjoyed a scintillating season and it was rounded off in fitting style as she defended her title at the CME Group Tour Championship. Still only 22, Thitikul has all the tools to win multiple Majors and given her recent form, it'd be a surprise if she didn't get over the line in 2026.

For me, her closest rival for the not-so-coveted title in either the men's or women's game is Patrick Cantlay, who I think it an absolute flusher, but given his indifferent form of late, Thitikul takes the crown.

Joost Luiten shared his frustration at not being included in the Nedbank Golf Challenge field despite finishing 33rd in the most recent Race To Dubai. Is it unfair that wins count for more than consistency?

It certainly seems harsh that Joost Luiten hasn’t managed to qualify for the Nedbank, given a solid campaign on the DP World Tour this year.

The Nedbank is a fairly unique event, however, with such a small field of just 66 players.

It is unlucky on his part, but ultimately he hasn’t fulfilled the qualifying criteria for this specific event and I’m sure he could tee it up in the Australian Open at Royal Melbourne during the same week, which is also sanctioned by the DP World Tour.

I find it really difficult to agree that the DP World Tour and Nedbank Golf Challenge officials have got this one right, and the number of pros who backed Luiten's comments on social media tells me this is a common belief among touring pros as well.

Rory McIlroy regularly mentions how he is most proud of how consistent he's been over a long period of time, rather than picking out individual tournaments that he's won, and I'd agree that a high level of consistency is certainly more worthwhile rewarding than a one-off winner.

I know that the Nedbank is a limited-field event, but restricting the number of players who qualify through the Race To Dubai to 30 seems overly harsh to me. Justice for Joost!

I can see both sides of the argument and, given that getting a win on the professional circuits is so hard to do, there should be some reward for collecting the trophy.

However, a win could be a one-off event. You perform well for four days a year, and you're suddenly entitled to more than someone who has performed well for 12 weeks of the year.

If the tournament wasn't a limited field, Luiten would be in all day and, given the prize money at stake, I do find it incredibly tough on him that he doesn't feature, especially given his service and consistency to the DP World Tour.

I think most people would agree Joost Luiten should be in the field for the Nebank Golf Challenge. He's a stalwart on the circuit and he enjoyed a solid season in 2025, finishing 33rd on the Race to Dubai standings.

I'm not sure why three players from the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup top-70 category are ahead of him in the pecking order, and five sponsor's invites seem a bit excessive in a tournament with a limited field.

That said, he hasn't won a tournament on the DP World Tour for six years, and I'm not sure you should expect a place in such a lucrative event if that's the case. Still, If I were Luiten, I'd find it galling to be behind both LIV Golf and PGA Tour members in terms of priority.

Firing a 26-under tournament total, the World No.1 never looked in trouble throughout her week, firing rounds of 67, 63, 64 and 68 to wrap up the $4 million prize by a comfortable four shot margin.

Securing three wins on the LPGA Tour throughout 2025, as well as the PIF Saudi Ladies International on the Ladies European Tour, Thitikul has done so without changing much within her bag.

A Callaway staffer, you will find the 22-year-old using a full Callaway set-up and, rather uniquely, Thitikul has different color grips from her 4-iron to her 58°, so that her dad, Montree, can closely follow which clubs his daughter is using on TV.

Now a seven-time winner on the LPGA Tour, you can check out her full winning WITB below...

Driver

At the start of 2025, Thitikul changed her driver from the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond to the Elyte Triple Diamond, with the Thai player continuing to rank inside the top 50 for driving statistics.

The lower spinning model of the Elyte range, it features a 10.5° head, which Thitikul has set at 9.5°. It also possesses a Fujikura Ventus TR Red 5 S shaft, which has been in her set-up for a number of years now.

Throughout the week at the CME Group Tour Championship she missed just seven fairways, averaging 273 yards off the tee.

Fairway Wood

In the fairway wood department, Thitikul has the standard Elyte in her bag, which is a 3-wood configuration and set at 15°.

Once again, it's an update from her Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke 3-wood, which was in play until the tail-end of 2024.

One similarity, though, is that Thitikul has kept her Fujikura Ventus TR Blue 6 S shaft in play, with the length of the club measuring 41.5", around 1.5" shorter than standard.

Utility Wood

The Callaway Apex UW sits between a fairway wood and hybrid perfectly, with it being one of the most versatile clubs on the market.

Xander Schauffele is among the notable players to previously put one in the bag and, in the case of Thitikul, she too has it in her set-up, specifically with a 19° head and a Mitsubishi Diamana GT 60 S shaft.

Blending the performance of the best fairway woods and best hybrids, we don't see the Callaway Apex UW being removed from her bag anytime soon.

Irons

It's a similar story with Thitikul's irons, as the 22-year-old has the Callaway X Forged Star and standard X Forged in the bag, which have been a crucial part of her set-up for a number of years.

To begin with, the Star model is in 4-iron and 5-iron. They differ from the regular X Forged as they provide a slightly larger profile, as well as a more forgiving head, hence why Thitikul uses them in the longer irons.

The X Forged, meanwhile, feature in 6-iron to pitching wedge and are ranked as one of the best Callaway irons on the market. They provide minimal offset and a thin topline, as well as a tri-level sole with beveled leading and trailing edges that promote smooth turf interaction at impact.

Shaft-wise, Thitikul has KBS PGI 90s shafts and, as mentioned, she has different colored grips on all of her irons. Her 4-iron is a vibrant green, the 5-iron is black and the 6-iron is white. Orange, yellow and a light pink then appear on Thitikul's 7, 8 and 9-iron.

Wedges

Moving to the scoring section of the bag, with Thitikul using Callaway Opus wedges, which are among the best that money can buy.

Loft-wise, you'll spot a 48°, 52° bent to a 50° and a 58° bent to 57.5°. This is the optimal gapping for the World No.1, who has her wedges stamped with inspiring quotes.

Her 48° has "you're braver than you believe," her 52° has "stronger than you seem" and her 58° "and smarter than you think."

Putter

This club has been the secret weapon of Thitikul's throughout the past few seasons, as the 22-year-old ranks top in Putts Per Green in Regulation Average.

Putter-wise, it's the Odyssey White Hot Versa #7 that has helped her produce such a successful season, with mallet-fang style design being a regular feature in her bag since the beginning of 2023.

Even prior to joining Callaway in 2022, Thitikul was using an Odyssey putter, specifically the Odyssey Toulon. In fact, such is her performance with the White Hot Versa #7, she ranked first for Putts Per Green in Regulation Average in 2025 and 2024.

Golf Ball

The final component of Thitikul's bag is her golf ball, which is the Callaway Chrome Tour X that features a four-piece construction and copious amounts of spin.

Released in 2024, it has been a part of her bag since then, with Thitikul preferring the more workable and firmer feeling nature of the Tour X to the standard Chrome Tour.

Many professionals mark their golf balls differently and, with Thitikul, she puts a J either side of the number. Speaking of the number, Thitikul has 46 on every golf ball, which is her birthday in the Thai calendar, with the World No.1 stating: "I was born in 2546 Thai calendar, instead of 2003." She also draws a face on one side of the ball with a crown on it.

Jeeno Thitikul CME Group Tour Championship Winning WITB

• Driver: Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond set at 9.5° with a Fujikura Ventus TR Red 5 S shaft
• Fairway Wood: Callaway Elyte (15°) with a Fujikura Ventus TR Blue 6 S shaft
• Utility Wood: Callaway Apex UW (19°) with a Mitsubishi Diamana GT 60 S shaft
• Irons: Callaway X Forged Star (4-5), Callaway X Forged (6-PW) with KBS PGI 90s shafts
• Wedges: Callaway Opus (48°, 50°, 57.5) with Shimada K 3001 S Flex shafts
• Putter: Odyssey White Hot Versa #7
• Ball: Callaway Chrome Tour X

At the end of a season which featured 29 different winners, Thitikul was one of only two players on the LPGA Tour to lift a trophy two or more times.

She triumphed at the Mizuho Americas Open in May and then again at the Buick LPGA Shanghai in October.

The World No.1 subsequently went on to cap off an incredibly good year with a successful defence of her CME Group Tour Championship at Tiburon Golf Club last weekend.

Not to mention, in her only start on the Ladies European Tour - which kicked off her season in February - Thitikul claimed top honors at the PIF Saudi Ladies International, taking her season win tally up to four.

Not only were there multiple victories, but Thitikul exhibited incredible consistency, too. She missed just one cut - at the US Women's Open - and was inside the top-10 in all but six of her 22 worldwide appearances.

In addition, the Thai star claimed the Rolex Player of the Year trophy and the Vare Trophy, scoring 68.681 to set a new LPGA Tour single-season average which beat Annika Sorenstam's 2002 effort of 68.696.

All of that success has led to an impressive haul of prize money. Kicked off with a check for almost $650,000 at the PIF Saudi Ladies International, Thitikul won more than $300,000 across her first two LPGA Tour starts in the Far East via third-place and T2nd finishes.

A rare non-top-10 occurred at the Blue Bay LPGA where the 22-year-old's T12th result saw her collect a shade under $40,000, but Thitikul corrected that slip through three top-10s in a row thereafter that earned her over $250,000.

Although Thitikul endured a relatively disappointing T24th at the Chevron Championship, she still earned almost $70,000.

Any frustration surrounding that week was quickly forgotten, though, as Thitikul won her first LPGA Tour title of the year and $450,000 at the Mizuho Americas Open.

During a relatively shaky part of the season as far as Thitikul was concerned, she followed up her win with a missed cut at the US Women's Open and a T11th at the ShopRite LPGA Classic which earned her just over $30,000.

Despite missing the cut at Erin Hills, players were awarded a $10,000 stipend by the USGA, so the World No.1 still took a small consolation prize away.

Either side of a disappointing T27th finish at the Dow Championship were two excellent Major results for Thitikul. T4th at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship and a playoff defeat to Grace Kim at the Evian Championship secured Thitikul more than $1.25 million across a three-week period.

Then, after banking just under $150,000 at the AIG Women's Open (T30th) and CPKC Women's Open (T7th), Thitikul began to really crank up her earning power.

Consecutive runner-up finishes at the FM Championship and Kroger Queen City Championship pulled in more than $450,000 before victory at the Buick LPGA Shanghai added another $330,000.

Following a T7th for Team Thailand at the International Crown which helped Thitikul and her three teammates to almost $34,000 each, the World No.1 ended T4th at the Maybank Championship to collect a check for north of $100,000.

With more than $4 million collected already so far this term, Thitikul completed a particularly lucrative season with her second CME Group Tour Championship win. That almost doubled her on-course earnings in 2025 and left the Thai pro with a grand total of $8,269,748.75 from 22 starts.

That figure would have placed her just inside the top-20 on the PGA Tour's highest earners in 2025, narrowly ahead of Corey Conners and Collin Morikawa and behind Ludvig Aberg. Rory McIlroy earned around double Thitikul's amount of prize money this year and was third.

Thitikul's 2025 haul is significantly more than Nelly Korda banked during her seven-win season in 2024, with the American scoring nearly $4.4 million in total.

Korda's T5th result at the CME Group Tour Championship last year played a key part in her much lower prize money figure, as did her underwhelming run of results (MC, MC, T26th) in the three middle Majors.

Below is the complete breakdown of Thitikul's results, tournament appearances and prize money payouts in 2025.

JEENO THITIKUL RESULTS & EARNINGS 2025

In the end, Jeeno Thitikul won the event for the second season in a row, meaning she was again crowned Race to CME Globe champion. However, as well as writing her name into the history books, the Thai player is also significantly wealthier following her four-shot victory.

The event offered a prize money payout of $11m, with Thitikul banking the joint largest one-off payout ever awarded in the women’s game, $4m, the same sum she won at the event a year ago.

Helping her to her latest victory at the tournament was caddie Banpot Bunpisansaree. So, how much did he earn at the event?

It is thought that, as well as base pay between $1,000 and $2,500 per tournament, the winning caddies of LPGA Tour events bank 10% of the overall prize money.

That means that Bunpisansaree likely earned a performance-related payout of $400,000 courtesy of Thitikul's victory.

It’s not just the winning caddie who received a substantial payday thanks to the elevated prize money at the tournament.

Players finishing in the top 10 of events are generally expected to award their caddies 7% of their prize money, with 5% going to the other 50 players in the CME Group Tour Championship field.

The runner-up at the tournament was Pajaree Anannarukarn, who earned $1m, meaning her caddie Jesus Mozo should be in line for a payday of around $70,000.

As a no-cut event, every player in the field for the CME Group Tour Championship receives a payment, with even the player finishing bottom of the leaderboard, Chanettee Wannasaen, banking $55,000 in prize money. As a result, her caddie can expect a payday of around $2,750.

The top 60 players from across the campaign had a shot at winning the Race To CME Globe as well as the handsome prize money, with $11m available at the tournament for the second year in a row.

A year ago, Jeeno Thitikul won the event to be named Race to CME Globe Champion, and she did it again, beating Pajaree Anannarukarn by four.

That handed the Thai superstar prize money of $4m - a figure only matched in the history of the women's game at the same event a year earlier.

While Anannarukarn will be disappointed she couldn't put more pressure on her compatriot, she also heads away from Tiburon Golf Club significantly wealthier, having earned $1m.

Nelly Korda, who finished the season without a win, placed third at the tournament, earning her prize money of $550,000.

As a no-cut event, every member of the field received some percentage of the $11m purse, with six-figure sums handed out as far down the leaderboard as the top 10 and ties.

Even the player who finished at the foot of the leaderboard, Chanettee Wannasaen, leaves the event with an eye-catching payout of $55,000.

However, ultimately, the tournament was all about Thitikul, and not just because of her win. Following the event, she was also handed the Rolex Player of the Year trophy by LPGA Tour commissioner Craig Kessler, as well as the Vare Trophy, which is presented to the player with the lowest scoring average at the end of the season.

Below is what each player won at the CME Group Tour Championship.

CME Group Tour Championship Prize Money Breakdown

If you’ve ever started the winter with big goals, only to lose motivation as the chilly weather kicks in, you’re not alone. The problem isn’t a lack of effort, it’s a lack of structure. When you try to do too much at once, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

But the beauty of these winter months is that we finally have time to work deeply on our game – not just chase a quick fix before next weekend’s Stableford.

Here’s how to create a winter golf plan you’ll actually stick to, so you can come out of it ready to play your best golf yet.

Step 1: Pick Your Purpose Project

I believe there are two key ingredients to building a plan you’ll actually stick to – focus and purpose. Instead of trying to work on a bit of everything at once, choose one area of your game that will have the biggest impact. Then commit deeply to improving it.

It might be a swing change you want to groove, a mental block you’re ready to work through or a targeted skill you want to build – like strike consistency, distance control or confidence over short putts.

Pick the one thing that you know, if you were to give it your full attention this winter, you could make real, measurable progress by spring.

Your purpose project is your why for the winter. It gives meaning to every session and keeps your motivation high, even when the weather’s against you.

This isn’t about chasing quick fixes – it’s about taking consistent, purposeful action that compounds over time.

Step 2: Build Your Mini Plan

Once you’ve chosen your purpose project, it’s time to turn that focus into a clear plan to follow. The secret is to keep it short and flexible because while winter might feel long, your training cycles don’t have to be.

Break your winter into two-week “mini blocks”, with each block acting as a focused training cycle. They’re short enough to stay motivated but long enough to see real progress, with one cycle naturally building on the last.

For each block, define two things:

The specific change you’re working on

The specific goal you’re working towards

Those two ingredients give every block a clear purpose and a simple way to measure your progress.

Breaking your plan into these mini blocks creates a natural rhythm for improvement. It helps you focus deeply, spot what’s working and adjust based on what you’ve learned before moving onto the next.

It also takes the pressure off. Instead of feeling like winter is a long slog before spring rolls around, you’ll have clear milestones that make every couple of weeks feel meaningful and productive.

Step 3: Plan Your Sessions

A plan is only as good as the week it fits into. Once you know your focus and mini block goals, the next step is to decide how you’ll bring them to life week by week.

Start by defining what a “good week” looks like for you. Maybe that’s two range sessions or a daily visit to the net in your garden. The point isn’t to cram in as much as possible – it’s to create a simple structure you can stick to consistently.

Depending on your purpose project, your sessions might focus on:

Technical work – drills that improve your mechanics, sequencing or strike.

Skill training – challenges that simulate on-course shots and pressure.

Mindset work – exercises that build focus, confidence or bounce-back ability.

When you know exactly what each session is for, it’s much easier to stick to your plan, stay motivated and leave with a sense of progress.

Step 4: Create Feedback Loops

Without feedback, practice can quickly turn into guesswork. You might hit balls and feel like you’re improving but without a way to measure progress, it’s impossible to know what’s actually working. After all, “feel” and “real” can be worlds apart in golf.

That’s where building a simple feedback loop comes in so you can see what’s working, what’s not and adjust accordingly. Instead of spending a whole range session wondering why something isn’t clicking, you’ll have the data to understand why and find a way forward.

As awkward as it might feel at first, I highly recommend filming your swing when you’re working on a technical change. Seeing your swing on video gives you objective feedback and stops old habits from sneaking back in.

If your purpose project is more skill or mental game based, your feedback might be tracking how many targets you hit, how often you commit fully to your routine or how confident you feel over each shot.

Either way, creating a feedback loop takes the guesswork out of improvement and gives you real data to learn from and that’s what turns practice into progress.

Step 5: Track Your Progress & Celebrate It

When you can see your progress, it’s so much easier to stay motivated, especially through the colder months. There’s nothing quite like noticing a swing change start to click or seeing the number of targets hit steadily rise.

Tracking your progress doesn’t have to be complicated. It could be reviewing the swings you’ve filmed over time or making a quick note on your phone after each session – capturing one thing that went well and one thing you want to carry forward.

But it’s not just about tracking your progress, it’s about celebrating it.

At the end of each mini block, take a moment to reflect on the work you’ve put in and the impact it’s had. The gains might feel small but those small gains compound. And by the time spring arrives, they’ll have created a big shift in your game and your confidence.

You don’t need a complicated plan or endless hours on the range to make this winter count. You just need a clear focus, a structure that fits your life and a way to adapt as you go.

If you want a structured plan to follow this winter, my monthly training plan is designed to help golfers go from tinkering on their game to training with purpose. And if you want to see how I’m working on my game, follow me on Instagram.

While I haven't tested the regular Cobra DS-ADAPT model, so I can't give you a direct comparison, I can tell you exactly how this enhanced model has been tailored to give female golfers added benefits and if I was impressed with the results.

The DS-ADAPT MAX has a slightly larger profile with a thicker topline, wider sole and added offset, which combine to provide maximum forgiveness. Unlike some irons that look intimidating when you address the ball, I found these ‘oversized’ aspects confidence-inspiring, making even the worst lies seem manageable.

In my opinion, there is nothing to dislike about the aesthetic of this iron. Cobra describes the finish as champagne, which is understated but pretty classy and it's fitted with a KBS light graphite shaft that’s mostly black.

When I first picked up this iron, I did find it heavy compared with others on the market, such as the Ping’s G Le3, XXIO 13, or TaylorMade's Kalea Gold. But as we're all different, and what feels heavy to me might feel light to someone else.

During testing, I was conscious of the weight of the club on my takeaway into my backswing, but I have to say, while no noticeable distance gains, I did manage to get the club back to the ball and consistently launch it fairly high so I was impressed with the results.

This might well have been due to the 2-degree weaker lofts in this model, which aim to help the ball get up and travel high without sacrificing speed. I also think the extra weight didn’t do me any harm, it helped me to give my shots extra oomph!

What I really appreciated, however, was the sound and feel at impact. Thanks to the hollow cavity that is filled with a soft foam, whatever the outcome, my shots felt robust and powerful without any harsh vibrations. Even on off-centre strikes, the sound was consistent and pleasing.

Overall, the DS-ADAPT MAX women's iron is a great offering if you’re looking for maximum forgiveness and height, which is wrapped up in a sleek package that inspires confidence at address.

In total, there will be 31 regular events as well as the Solheim Cup and Grant Thornton Invitational, which comes after the season-closing CME Group Tour Championship and features both LPGA Tour and PGA Tour players. Meanwhile, there will be a total prize fund of over $132 million.

The season begins on January 29th with the traditional opener, the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in Florida, followed by the first of two visits to the Far East for three events. The tour then returns to the US with the Founders Cup in California in late March.

There will then be three more events, including the Aramco Championship, which replaces the T-Mobile Match Play but comes from the same venue, Shadow Creek, before the first of the season's five Majors, the Chevron Championship.

Earlier in the month, Golfweek reported that after a three-year spell, it was set to move from Houston's The Club at Carlton Woods to Memorial Park Golf Course, although that is yet to be confirmed by the LPGA Tour, with the venue officially marked as to be determined. The tournament will take place between April 23rd and 26th.

Another notable change in the first half of the season sees the Black Desert Championship, which was held in early May in 2025, removed from the schedule entirely.

The Kroger Queen City Championship will be played between the 14th and 17th of the month, rather than September, when it was held in 2025.

The second Major of the year is the US Women's Open, which for the first time comes from Riviera Country Club and takes place between 4th and 7th June.

Two more events, the Dow Championship and Meijer LPGA Classic, follow before two Majors in back-to-back. The first is the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, which begins on June 25th at Hazeltine. Two weeks later is the Amundi Evian Championship in France.

After one more event, the ISPS Handa Women's Scottish Open, the final Major of the year arrives on July 30th, the AIG Women's Open, which in 2026 will be held at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

Following that, there are three more events, the Standard Portland Classic, the CPKC Women's Open and the FM Championship, before the 20th Solheim Cup at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands, between September 11th and 13th.

Two more US tournaments follow before the LPGA Tour heads to the Far East again for a run of four events, then heading back stateside for The Annika and the CME Group Tour Championship, which will take place between November 19th and 22nd.

Finally, for the fourth season in a row, the Grant Thornton Invitational wraps up the year from December 11th to 13th.

As well as some notable changes to the schedule, there are also some key venue changes in 2026.

The Founders Cup moves from Florida's Bradenton Country Club to California's Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club, while the Mizuho America's Open will take place at Mountain Ridge Country Club in New Jersey rather than Liberty National.

The Kroger Queen City Championship takes place at Maketewah Country Club in Cincinnati rather than Ohio's TPC River's Bend.

The venue for October's Buick LPGA Shanghai is to be confirmed, while November's Toto Japan Classic moves to Taiheiyo Club in Ibaraki, Japan.

LPGA Tour 2026 Schedule

• January 29 - February 1 – Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions
• February 19-22 – Honda LPGA Thailand
• February 26 - March 1 – HSBC Women’s World Championship
• March 5-8 – Blue Bay LPGA
• March 19-22 – Fortinet Founders Cup
• March 26-29 – Ford Championship
• April 2-5 – Aramco Championship
• April 16-19 – JM Eagle LA Championship
• April 23-26 – The Chevron Championship
• April 30 - May 3 – Mexico Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba
• May 7-10 – Mizuho Americas Open
• May 14-17 – Kroger Queen City Championship
• May 29-31 ShopRite LPGA Classic
• June 4-7 US Women's Open
• June 11-14 – Dow Championship
• June 18-21 – Meijer LPGA Classic
• June 25-28 – KPMG Women's PGA Championship
• July 9-12 – Amundi Evian Championship
• July 23-26 – ISPS Handa Women's Scottish Open
• July 30 - August 2 – AIG Women's Open
• August 13-16 – The Standard Portland Classic
• August 20-23 – CPKC Women's Open
• August 27-30 – FM Championship
• September 11-13 – Solheim Cup
• September 25-27 – Walmart NW Arkansas Championship
• October 1-4 – LOTTE Championship
• October 15-18 – Buick LPGA Shanghai
• October 22-25 – BMW Ladies Championship
• October 29 November 1 – Maybank Championship
• November 5-8 – TOTO Japan Classic
• November 12-15 – The Annika Driven by Gainbridge at Pelican
• November 19-22 – CME Group Tour Championship
• December 11-13 – Grant Thornton Invitational

From the beginning of next season, every round of each LPGA Tour event will be broadcast live for the first time since Golf Channel first linked up with the LGPA Tour in 1995.

Meanwhile, 50% more cameras - compared to 2025 - three times as many microphones and the introduction of drone footage will be among the supplemented coverage of domestic regular tour events and not just the five Majors.

Plus, working with Trackman, tracing technology will quadruple from next season so that fans can gain a better understanding of what each player is aiming to do.

Klaus Eldrup-Jørgensen, co-founder and CEO of Trackman, said: “We are thrilled to further our investment into the LPGA and work to elevate the viewership experience.

"Adding more Trackman technology to the LPGA telecast is a key element of our objective of elevating the women’s game and helping the world get even more inspired from the world’s best golfers.

“As we look to the future of this partnership, Trackman and the LPGA have the shared goals of creating exciting content that entertains and educates fans at home while providing additional resources for athletes on the course.”

Also discussing the agreement, LPGA commissioner Craig Kessler said: "The commitments from FM, Trackman and Golf Channel are a game-changer for our athletes, our fans, our partners and our Tour.

“Starting in 2026, fans will immediately see and feel the difference: more cameras, better technology, richer storytelling and more ways to appreciate the unbelievable skill of our players, fully live.

"We’re grateful for the shared vision and investment from FM, Trackman and Golf Channel. This is a major step forward for the women’s game, and it’s only the beginning. The next chapter for the LPGA is going to be something special.”

A significant factor behind the LPGA Tour being able to make this latest announcement arrived courtesy of investment from FM - the commercial property insurer which is the title sponsor of the $4.1 million FM Championship.

Chairman and CEO of FM, Malcolm Roberts, said: "We are proud to take our partnership with the LPGA to an even higher level by supporting the transformation of the LPGA Tour’s broadcast, athlete and fan experience for the 2026 season and beyond."

Roberts continued: "This collaboration with the LPGA and investment in state-of-the-art technology and equipment is right in line with FM’s belief in innovation and progress.

“We believe in our trusted partners at the LPGA. We are excited to significantly expand our support for women’s golf, driving progress further than ever before.”

The final event of the 2025 LPGA Tour season - the CME Group Tour Championship - takes place this week at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida.

Jeeno Thitikul is the defending champion and is aiming to secure the Rolex Player of the Year title as well as the Money List prize with a third victory of the year.

Meanwhile, Nelly Korda is hoping for her first win of the campaign in her home state.

According to LIV, Zuel will anchor pre-show coverage and deliver on-air analysis throughout all four rounds moving forward, starting with LIV Golf Riyadh in February.

The 35-year-old has worked in broadcasting for the past decade, operating as part of GolfTV and Discovery as well becoming a well-known face and voice on the Sky Sports Golf team.

Before that, Zuel played professionally on the Ladies European Tour and LET Access Series for seven years, having left her stellar amateur career behind at the age of 18.

She won twice on the Access Series and played in several Majors before a severe back injury ended her career early.

Speaking to LIV Golf about the decision to join the likes of Arlo White, David Feherty, Su-Ann Heng and Jerry Foltz, Zuel said: "Challenge has always guided my career, and I’m drawn to environments that encourage curiosity, innovation, and a genuine sense of purpose.

"LIV Golf is at the forefront of redefining how the sport is experienced, powered by elite athletes and leaders who embrace meaningful progress - a vision that strongly resonates with me.

“My passions - golf, technology, creativity, and forward thinking are all reflected in this role.

"Joining LIV Golf will enable me to draw on my experience as a commentator and former player, whilst contributing to the wider mission of expanding awareness and driving positive global change within the game.”

LIV Golf recently announced it would be moving from 54 holes to 72 from the start of 2026, and the move has coincided with the start of Zuel's time with the PIF-backed circuit.

Zuel and the rest of LIV Golf's on-air crew will be shown live via a number of different broadcasters all around the world, including Fox, DAZN, Movistar, KC Global Media, Seven Network and Coupang Play.

Discussing the signing of Zuel, LIV Golf's president of business operations, Chris Heck, said: “Henni Zuël brings exceptional journalistic experience and the credibility of a former professional player, enhancing the depth and quality of our coverage and strengthening our commitment to delivering a broadcast that is innovative, informed, and globally resonant.

“LIV Golf’s two-story format - where team identity and individual performance build simultaneously - requires the ability to illuminate both narratives with clarity and sophistication.

"Henni’s instincts, intuition, and commitment to modern storytelling make her an ideal voice for this new era.

"She embodies the professionalism, energy, and vision shaping the game, and her passion for integrating technology will help redefine how golf is experienced around the world.”

It's another massive few days in the world of professional golf, with the futures of multiple players on several different tours to be decided by Sunday evening.

While the DP World Tour is enjoying a well-earned break before kicking off its new season in Australia next week, the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour and Asian Tour are all winding up for arguably their most important sequence of the year.

The final events of the season on the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour and in the Asian Tour's International Series will see long-lasting repercussions for some players while others will see their dreams turn into reality.

Meanwhile, plenty has already happened and will continue to occur outside of the biggest pro circuits. Below are some of the key storylines for you to watch out for this week in golf.

TWO LIV GOLF CARDS AWARDED

The PIF Saudi International is taking place at Riyadh Golf Club this week, bringing the curtain down on the Asian Tour's International Series for another year.

While it is not finale of the Asian Tour schedule for 2025, the $5 million event - which begins on Wednesday and ends on Saturday - will decide which two players take spots in the LIV Golf League next year.

LIV announced it would be doubling its qualification pathway via the International Series earlier this month, giving the leading pair of eligible pros the chance to compete for $20 million payouts every week.

As a result of the lucrative opportunity, over 40 LIV players - past and present - are teeing it up in the hopes of securing their respective futures.

PGA TOUR FUTURES DECIDED

The RSM Classic is the last of seven FedEx Cup Fall events in 2025 and, as such, marks the final opportunity for members to retain their playing rights on the PGA Tour.

Plenty of notable names face an uphill battle to keep their cards in 2026, with the only guaranteed method of sticking around being winning at Sea Island Golf Club, Georgia.

Although there is a slightly increased prize purse compared to most FedEx Cup Fall events, very few of the players will be too worried about the check they pick up at the end of the week, so long as they're still PGA Tour members next term.

JEENO THITIKUL CAN WIN IT ALL

The LPGA Tour's CME Group Tour Championship will decide a handful of different awards in the elite women's circuit, including who is named Race To CME Globe champion.

60 of the LPGA Tour's best are teeing it up at Tiburón Golf Club in Naples, Florida, with each hoping to land the $4 million top prize from a total payout of $11 million.

Should World No.1 Jeeno Thitikul manage to defend her title in the campaign finale, she would sweep most of the season-long awards.

Already favorite to win the Vare Trophy - given to the player with the lowest scoring average throughout the season - and the Rolex Player of the Year, Thitikul needs to earn around $250,000 more than Minjee Lee to land the Money List title as well.

Despite Thitikul holding a near-800-point lead over Lee in the Race To CME Globe rankings, the Thai star is $244,058 behind her Australian rival in the LPGA Tour's Money List and will require a strong end to the season in Florida.

HENRIK STENSON RETURNS

Less than three years after playing his last DP World Tour event before moving to the LIV Golf League, Henrik Stenson is officially returning to the European circuit ahead of 2026.

The DP World Tour confirmed to Golf Monthly on Monday that the Swede has no outstanding fines and has applied for DP World Tour membership once again, although it is not yet clear which event he will make his second debut in.

ELSEWHERE

• Jennifer Kupcho banked $1 million bonus payout for winning Aon Risk Reward Challenge while Brooke Matthews scored a two-year lease on a Lamborghini thanks to her first-ever hole-in-one at The Annika
• Bridgestone has unveiled a new prototype golf ball that Jason Day already uses and Tiger Woods could end up using in the future
• Charlie Hull followed Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood in putting the new TaylorMade Qi4 driver in her bag at The Annika
• The Open Championship being held at Royal Portrush led to the country's economy being boosted by $369 million, per The R&A
• Marco Penge and Jordan Smith are among the 10 DP World Tour players to earn dual status on the PGA Tour following the culmination of the DP World Tour Championship
• Henni Zuel has joined the LIV Golf League broadcast team after almost 10 years at Sky Sports Golf

Over the years, I've directed countless women's instruction shoots, so I'm armed with all the knowledge of how to play bunker shots. That's what I've found most frustrating, especially when people say, 'You used to be really good out of bunkers!'

My brain became scrambled with competing thoughts every time I entered the sand. Clearly, whatever I thought I was doing right, my technique needed some serious attention. I reached out to Sarah Bennett, one of our Top 50 Coaches, to help end my bunker woes at Colchester Golf Club.

Set-Up

It was a case of back to basics for my set-up. I’m a right-handed player and my right hand had slipped too far round under the grip.

Without adding any extra pressure, and keeping my right elbow soft, Sarah got me to move the fleshy pad under my right thumb (the non-target hand) on top of my left thumb, as though I was gently squeezing five pence between the two. This is to help gain maximum loft without opening the clubface.

My eyes lit up, as I did wonder if this tweak to my grip would also help to abolish short game shanks, but that’s another lesson!

Too Much Spine Angle

I must remember to wriggle in the sand and lower my centre of gravity. But from there, one of my biggest problems, and one of the reasons why I often hit behind the ball, is because I have too much spine angle, tilting backwards, instead of keeping my shoulders level and my sternum over the ball, not behind it.

80% Of Weight On Front Leg

In turn, too much spine angle contributes to another fault, which is too much weight on the right side. I had to really focus on feeling like I had no weight shift towards the non-target side.

I was told to keep stable, really lean into my left side and feel my quads working. For me, having been so far back, I now felt so far forward, but as Sarah pointed out, remember that in golf ‘feel’ and ‘real’ are totally different. From the correct set-up, I was able to create a nice delivery position and now produce bunker shots with trajectory.

Take Sand

Taking sand is one thing, but more importantly, it’s about taking sand in the right place behind the ball. Sarah made two lines in the sand 4 inches apart and the aim was to enter the sand between the two lines.

To be honest, once I’d corrected my other faults, I found it easier to attack the sand in the right place with a more forward flowing movement.

I must admit, since putting into practice what I’ve learnt, I still have to concentrate hard on imagining another ball behind my ball, so I make contact with the sand in the right place.

I cannot emphasise enough the importance of my bunker lesson, or in fact, any lesson. I’d left it too long, and too many faults had crept in - it's incredible that I ever managed to get out of a bunker!

Now with Sarah’s expert tuition, which she delivered in such a relatable way, I have all the tools I need to improve in the sand. She has given me the confidence to trust myself in the bunker, and so far, so good!

If you're struggling in the sand, here are Sarah's top tips:

Five S’s For Success In The Sand

• Set-up - Widen the base and “wriggle” into the sand nice and low leaning into the inside of your target thigh. This is important to contact the sand propelling the ball from the the ideal forward of central position.
• Swing Length - All good bunker players have excellent tempos and appropriate length of swing for the shot in hand. A common error is a very short quick backswing compromising the rhythm.
• Speed – I find many golfers “decelerate” both with their body and the club. Sand is a heavy material so requires a certain degree of power for the club to glide through.
• Sound - A well- executed bunker shot will produce a crisp sound with a shallow even entry divot. We all know too well when we take too much sand the divot is deep with a resounding thud or not enough a thin tingle sound.
• Sand - The entry point for all bunker shots is within an approximate 4”-5” parameter so practice hitting in between two lines this distance apart. This drill provides immediate feedback aiding consistency of strike.

The last piece of advice, and probably the most important, is to manage your expectations. Enter the bunker with a sensible exit route based on the lie and height of the bunker face. Walk into the bunker with confidence and a smile.

Sarah Bennett
PGA Honorary Member
PGA Captain GB&I 2022
Instagram and Facebook

Not only did Kupcho finish The Annika on 16-under to take solo second behind Linn Grant and earn a check for just over $300,000, but the three-time Solheim Cup player also banked a $1 million bonus to boot.

The former Wake Forest player ended up topping the LPGA Tour's Aon Risk Reward Challenge from Minjee Lee in second to land the massive pay day, but only just.

The Aon Risk Reward Challenge is worked out by taking the best two scores made by each player on a designated hole at each tournament - usually a par 5.

From there, the best average score to par across the entire season dictates a player's position in the standings.

In 2025, Kupcho won the $1 million prize on -0.925, just 0.004 better than her Australian rival.

Speaking after her achievement was confirmed, Kupcho said: "I think I was stressing about it really all like the last three weeks. Really stressed about it obviously this week.

"But to be able to make an eagle, that was insane on Friday and pretty cool. I mean, obviously it wasn't just that one round, one hole, it was the whole year.

"Yeah, to be able to say I'm a winner of Aon Risk Reward is pretty cool. I've been pretty close the last couple years. To finally get it done is awesome."

Kupcho was sixth last year and fifth in 2022, but the 28-year-old finally crossed the line in first after 20 counting events this season.

She was looking over her shoulder at A Lim Kim before the action began at Pelican Golf Club, but it was Lee who ended up posing the biggest threat.

However, a stunning 60-foot eagle putt at the 522-yard par-5 14th during round two ultimately proved to be the clinching moment for Kupcho, who heads into the CME Group Tour Championship ranked 20th.

Regarding her aggressive approach, Kupcho said: "Really on all par 5s, I am kind of in the nature of just send it and see what happens.

"I certainly was that way all week with that hole (No. 14), but I think it's just trying to get up there as close as possible.

"It's a really hard hole. Really hard hole to eagle, honestly. So to be able to have thrown one in is pretty sweet."

The Tiburon Golf Club event in Florida is a suitably fitting finale to the season for several reasons.

One is the $11m purse, which is one of the largest in the history of the women’s game.

Another is the star-studded field. That comprises the top 60 in the season-long Race to CME Globe standings, with the field set following the penultimate event, The Annika.

There’s also the battle for the Race to CME Globe title, which was won last year by Jeeno Thitkul.

Regardless of points accumulated throughout the season, every player in the field is still in with a chance of winning the title, with the honor going to the player who wins the event.

While there is no shortage of world-class players in the field, including Thitikul, Nelly Korda and Lydia Ko, for some high-profile stars, a spot at the event was not to be.

Here are some of the biggest names to miss the CME Group Tour Championship.

Lilia Vu

Lilia Vu’s breakout season in 2023 was one for the ages, with four LPGA tour titles, including two Majors.

That helped her reach the top of the world rankings, but it has not been as straightforward in 2025.

Vu is now down to 38th in the world following a season that has only had one top-10 finish.

She needed a similar finish at The Annika to force her way into the field for the CME Group Tour Championship at The Annika. Instead, she missed the cut, and with it her chance to extend her season.

In Gee Chun

It’s been a poor season for the winner of the 2022 Women’s PGA Championship, who went without a top 10 finish.

Even with that, ahead of The Annika, there was still a chance that Chun could have made it into the field for the season finale. However, T26 wasn’t enough, and as a result, she will be sitting out the action.

Amy Yang

A year ago, Yang placed a highly creditable T8 at the CME Group Tour Championship to cap a brilliant season that included victory at the Women’s PGA Championship.

However, the South Korean, who won the CME Group Tour Championship in 2023, didn't do enough to make it to the 2025 edition of the season finale after going the whole year without a top-10 finish.

Rose Zhang

It’s been a frustrating year for the former World Amateur No.1.

it began well enough, with T10 at the Tournament of Champions, but a spell away from the game to focus on her studies at Stanford, followed by a neck injury, left Zhang too much to do to reach the CME Group Tour Championship.

She needed a big performance at The Annika to extend her season, but could only manage T21.

Yuka Saso

Two-time US Women’s Open champion Saso was facing the stark reality of needing a win at The Annika to reach the CME Group Tour Championship.

That was thanks to a hugely disappointing season that had included 14 missed cuts to that point. That became 15 at The Annika, as well as making it her 10th in a row worldwide.

As a result, it’s back to the drawing board for the Japanese star as she has an extra week to prepare for the 2026 season.

Ashleigh Buhai

The 2022 Women's Open champion began The Annika 80th in the Race to CME Globe standings, and that’s where she remained following a finish of 67th at Pelican Golf Club.

That will be a disappointment for the South African, particularly after she began the season with two top 10s and one finish of 11th in her first four appearances.

Georgia Hall

Hall, who won the Women's Open seven years ago, never really found that form in 2025.

A T9 at the Honda LPGA Thailand aside, the Englishwoman spent most of the season struggling to find her best form, while she hasn’t played at all since August.

Because of that, her fate was already sealed before The Annika, at 112th in the Race to CME Globe rankings. That became 113th by the time the event had finished, leaving her well short of a CME Group Tour Championship appearance.

Anna Nordqvist

Immediately beneath Hall in the standings is three-time Major winner Nordqvist.

The 38-year-old, whose most recent Major title came the 2021 AIG Women’s Open, went winless for the third season in a row on the LPGA Tour.

Despite that disappointment, 2026 is guaranteed to be a huge year for the Swede, when she will captain Team Europe in the Solheim Cup at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands.

Danielle Kang

The 2017 Women’s PGA Champion hasn’t secured an LPGA Tour title since the 2022 Tournament of Champions, and she didn’t get close to ending that drought in 2025.

Kang’s best finish on the LPGA Tour this season was T54 at the Shoprite LPGA Classic. As a result, she finished the season 170th in the Race to CME Globe rankings.

Hinako Shibuno

The 2019 Women's Open champion showed brief glimpses of her ability this season, most notably with T7 at the US Women's Open. However, overall, it has been a disappointment for the Japanese player.

Her final LGPA Tour action of the year resulted in a missed cut at The Annika, leaving her stranded in 104th in the Race to CME Globe standings and nowhere close to taking her place in the season finale.

“Levi is such a sweet baby,” she said, smiling. “I couldn’t say the same for the first three months, but now he’s six months, he’s a dream. He sleeps 12 hours, which changed my life. I was playing golf again, travelling again, living my dream and being a mum. It’s really rewarding.”Lee's return to competition, following an emergency C-section, was anything but easy. The physical toll had been immediate. “The first few days, I couldn’t walk,” she recalled. “

At six weeks I started putting and chipping, then swinging at eight to nine weeks, and drivers around week ten. I lost a ton of power, my ball speed dropped nearly 20 mph. I cried some days, thinking I was so far behind.”

Watch the full interview with Alison Lee on motherhood and her return to competitive golf

Despite the physical and emotional toll, the two-time Solheim Cup player’s determination never wavered. “I’ve been a pro for 11 years,” she explained. “I’ve won on the LET, but not yet on the LPGA, and that dream keeps me going.”

The challenge, she admitted, was balancing athletic ambition with motherhood: “Some days I didn’t want to practise, but I pushed myself. Still, I often felt like I wasn’t practising enough and not being the best mom. I’m still figuring out the balance, and it’s getting easier.”

Crucially, Lee was quick to credit her extensive support system, particularly her mother and Levi’s father, for helping her navigate the unique demands of elite sport and new motherhood. “Having help has been huge,” she said. “You can’t do everything alone.”

Lee also drew inspiration from successful athlete mums like Stacy Lewis, though she acknowledged the path was personal. “Every woman and every baby is different,” Lee reflected. “Some people say you should stay home longer, others say the opposite. I’m just doing what works for me.”

As a proud Golf Saudi ambassador, Lee had found a dedicated partner in her journey. She deeply values the organisation's massive investment into the women's game. “They’ve stayed committed to women’s golf,” she noted. “Purses have grown, production is better, and there are more events.

To grow the game, you need investment, and they believe in us.” This support, she added, went beyond simple sponsorship. “It’s meaningful,” Lee said. “You feel the investment, the care, the intention behind it. That kind of support makes a difference.”

Golf Saudi has invested heavily in the Ladies European Tour, funding 30 events with prize funds totalling $45.5M, sponsoring 14 female professionals, and introducing golf to thousands of women and girls across the Kingdom.

For Lee, success is no longer measured solely by trophies; it’s about legacy. “I want Levi to see that hard work pays off,” she stated. “My mum was a full-time working mum who did everything for me. She’s my role model. I want to be that for him.”

Her message to other women in sport considering motherhood was both honest and empowering: “Give yourself grace. Only a few come back and instantly play great, and usually they have help. To be a great athlete, sometimes you have to be selfish, and that’s okay. Take breaks, ask for help. It makes you a better mum too.”

Looking ahead, Lee’s goals remain ambitious. “I don’t want to just make cuts, I want to contend. This year was about seeing where my game is after taking time off. I’ll work hard this off-season and hope for a big 2026.”

Lee’s story is a blend of strength, vulnerability, and unwavering ambition. With her family’s support and the backing of Golf Saudi, she’s redefining what it means to be a modern elite athlete and mother.

www.pifglobalseries.com

There was, of course, the ‘consolation prize’ of another Race to Dubai title, a seventh for the Masters champion, who will just have to wait a little longer for DP World Tour victory number 21.

Enough about that - old news already. What you really want to know is, what’s going on in the equipment world?

Last week, the big gear story was Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood playing the new TaylorMade Qi4D drivers, the former with a standard version and the Englishman with the LS model.

Charley Hull, a player known for producing explosive speed, has also been pictured hitting the new model.

Hull fans will know that the TaylorMade player has been playing with the Qi10 LS, although the England star had the Qi4D in the bag during the penultimate event of the LPGA Tour season, The Annika.

As well as the brand-new TaylorMade drivers, the Ping G440 K - another model to have appeared on the USGA Conforming List recently - has been spotted, which appears to be the next iteration of the G440 range.

Thriston Lawrence is one of the latest Ping ambassadors to try the new Ping G440 K model.

The South African, a five-time winner on the DP World Tour, was seen using the new driver in Dubai, where he finished tied 24th.

We believe this to be a new high-MOI model, similar to the G430 10K driver, which proved very popular and is still among the best golf drivers nearly two years after its release.

We’re expecting a flurry of more new models as we approach ‘new driver season’, although it’s always just as interesting to see older gear in play - and there can’t be many players using an older driver than Aaron Rai, who took the Abu Dhabi title at Yas Links recently playing with a TaylorMade M6 driver, which was released back in 2016.

Well, maybe one or two.

A MIXTURE OF OLD AND NEW

This brings us to Adam Schenk, winner of the weekend’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship, a victory that helped the American save his card.

That crucial win, his first on the PGA Tour at the 243rd time of asking, was secured using an eight-year-old driver - the Ping G440, the model that replaced G.

It’s certainly not unusual to see old equipment out on tour. At the DP World Tour Championship, Fitzpatrick had his trusty Ping irons in the bag - i210 3- and 4-irons, and S55 irons 5-PW, a 10-year-old set that the former US Open champion won’t be retiring any time soon.

What was slightly more unusual was seeing Schenk putt one-handed.

Although we are digressing slightly at this point, Fitzpatrick has attracted a lot of attention for his cross-handed chipping action.

No doubt the two recent winners could have an interesting chat around their choice of equipment and why they don't follow convention.

Back to the latest equipment news, and it was interesting to see Ping brand ambassador Tyrrell Hatton with a brand-new TaylorMade Qi4D 3-wood in the bag.

The LIV golfer was one of only two players who could prevent McIlroy from winning the Race to Dubai at the weekend - the other being Marco Penge - but, in truth, the Northern Irishman rarely looked like losing his grip on the season-long title.

Now, after a short rest, attention will soon turn to the 2026 season.

And with the PGA Show in Orlando just around the corner, like the pros, we’re looking forward to getting our hands on plenty of new equipment.

Stay tuned.

Adam Schenk, who hadn't won on the PGA Tour in 243 starts, finally got over the line at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, earning a one shot win to keep his playing rights on the circuit.

Linn Grant, meanwhile, dominated proceedings at The Annika driven by Gainbridge, carding a five-under-par final round of 65 to earn a second win on the circuit and her first in two years.

On the PGA Tour Champions Tour, Stewart Cink produced a two shot win to secure the season-ending Charles Schwab Cup Championship, earning the Charles Schwab Cup in the process.

All three players were on form at their respective events and, in terms of clubs, there were some interesting set-ups in play from the trio, with their full specs listed below.

Driver

Starting off with the drivers, with all three players using models from Ping.

Interestingly, the models in question are all different, as Schenk opted for the older G400, which was released in 2017. Grant, meanwhile, was using last year's G430 LST, while Cink was using this year's G440 Max.

Schenk's standard G400 has a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft in it, with Grant's lower-spinning G430 LST using a Fujikura Speeder TR 757 S. Finally, Cink's G440 Max has the Graphite Design Tour AD XC 6 X shaft in play.

Fairway Wood

At the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Schenk opted not to use a fairway wood, instead he went for a 2-iron to tackle the windy conditions present at Port Royal.

In terms of Grant, the Swede had a Ping G440 Max 4-wood in play, which was set-up at 17° and had a Mitsubishi Diamana BB 73 S shaft.

Cink also had Ping G440 Max's in the bag, with the former Major winner using a 3-wood (15°) that featured a Project X HZRDUS Smoke Green Small Batch 70 6.5 TX shaft.

Hybrid

Although hybrids appear to be becoming less and less popular on the PGA Tour, they are still used on the professional circuits, as seen with Grant and Cink.

Schenk didn't have a hybrid in the bag, but the other pair did, as Grant used the Ping G440 (20°) and Cink the G430 (21°).

Shaft-wise, Grant has gone for the Graphite Design HY, while the American opts for the Project X HZRDUS Black 90 HY 6.5 shaft.

Irons

For the most part, Ping dominate once again in the iron department, with all three players using at least one Ping iron in their set-up.

Starting with Schenk, who has i210 in 2-iron to 5-iron, but changes to the Mizuno MP-18 SC in 6-iron to pitching wedge. All of his irons have True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts, which are one of the most popular on the professional circuits.

Grant and Cink, meanwhile, also use the best Ping irons within their set-up.

In terms of Grant, she has the Ping iDi in a 4-iron and the Ping i210 in 5-iron to pitching wedge. Unlike Schenk, a mixed shaft set-up is in play here as the 4-iron has a KBS Tour Proto Hybrid shaft and the 5-iron to pitching wedge uses True Temper Dynamic Gold XP 95 S300s.

Cink possesses a combo set of irons in his bag, with Ping i210 from 4-iron to 7-iron and Ping Blueprint T from 8-iron to pitching wedge. He too has True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts in play.

Wedges

Like we saw in Matt Fitzpatrick's DP World Tour Championship wedge set-up, Schenk has Titleist Vokey SM10s in 52°, 56° and 60°. They also feature True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts.

The SM10 is ranked as one of the best golf wedges on the market, as is the Ping S159, which are the wedges that feature in Grant's bag. Loft-wise, the 26-year-old uses a 52°, 56° and 60°, with True Temper Dynamic Gold XP 95 S300 shafts present.

Finishing with Cink, who has a mix of the Ping i230 in 52°, the Ping Glide Forged in 56° and the Titleist Vokey Design WedgeWorks in 60°. Like his irons, True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts are in play for the scoring section of his set-up.

Putter

Moving to the final club in the bag, where an array of putters are on show, with all three using a mallet-design to claim victory at their tournaments.

Throughout the week in Bermuda, Schenk had been deploying various putting strokes, including putting one-handed at one point. His flatstick of choice was the Odyssey Tri-Hot Rossie, a similar head shape to the putter Jon Rahm uses.

Both Grant and Cink use Ping putters, with Grant opting for the Ping PLD Prime Tyne and Cink the Ketsch Vault 2.0, which has been in his bag for a considerable amount of time.

Golf Ball

When it comes to the golf ball, Schenk and Grant use the Titleist Pro V1, while Cink opts for the higher spinning, firmer feel of the Titleist Pro V1x.

Both are ranked among the best golf balls money can buy and, in terms of Schenk, he actually uses the 2017 version of the Pro V1, with Grant putting the newest edition in play.

Cink, meanwhile, has had the Pro V1x in the bag since the beginning of the decade, using it for his PGA Tour wins in 2020 and 2021, as well as his four PGA Tour Champions victories.

Adam Schenk Butterfield Bermuda Championship Winning WITB

• Driver: Ping G400 set at 9° with a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft
• Irons: Ping i210 (2-5), Mizuno MP-18 SC (6-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts
• Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM10 (52°, 56°, 60°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts
• Putter: Odyssey Tri-Hot Rossie
• Ball: Titleist Pro V1 (2017)

Linn Grant The Annika Driven By Gainbridge Winning WITB

• Driver: Ping G430 LST set at 9.5° with a Fujikura Speeder TR 757 S shaft
• Fairway Wood: Ping G440 Max 4-wood (17°) with a Mitsubishi Diamana BB 73 S shaft
• Hybrid: Ping G440 (20°) with a Graphite Design HY shaft
• Irons: Ping iDi (4), Ping i210 (5-PW)
  4-iron has a KBS Tour Proto Hybrid shaft, 5-iron to pitching wedge has True Temper Dynamic Gold XP 95 S300 shafts
• Wedges: Ping S159 (52°, 56°, 60°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold XP 95 S300 shafts
• Putter: Ping PLD Prime Tyne
• Ball: Titleist Pro V1

Stewart Cink Charles Schwab Cup Championship Winning WITB

• Driver: Ping G440 Max set at 9° with a Graphite Design Tour AD XC 6 X shaft
• Fairway Wood: Ping G440 Max 3-wood (15°) with a Project X HZRDUS Smoke Green Small Batch 70 6.5 TX shaft
• Hybrid: Ping G430 (21°) with a Project X HZRDUS Black 90 HY 6.5 shaft
• Irons: Ping i210 (4-7), Ping Blueprint T (8-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts
• Wedges: Ping i230 (52°), Ping Glide Forged (56°), Titleist Vokey Design WedgeWorks (60°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts
• Putter: Ping Ketsch Vault 2.0
• Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

Matthews made her debut ace on the 143-yard 12th hole at Pelican Golf Club, sending her ball into the heart of the green with a nine iron before it bounced to the right and quickly disappeared.

Her face was a picture of shock immediately after the moment, and it remained that way as the 27-year-old high-fived her playing partners and the group's caddies before making her way down to the green.

Speaking to the LPGA Tour afterwards, she said: “It was probably the craziest moment of my life, honestly.

“It was 140 (yards). I had a 9-iron. It one-hopped on the left hill and went in, and I still can't believe it. That was my first ever hole-in-one, so it was a pretty special moment."

Matthews would likely have been happy enough with a first eagle of the day as she battled to reach the CME Group Tour Championship, but the bonus prize for managing a hole-in-one at the 12th made her achievement even more special.

Courtesy of Morgan Automotive, Matthews was able to claim a Lamborghini Urus - the high-end manufacturer's Super Sport Utility Vehicle which retails from around $270,000 brand new.

As well as the chance to drive a shiny new vehicle, Matthews' ace also saw a $20,000 donation made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital on her behalf by CME Group as part of their CME Group Cares Challenge – Score 1 for St. Jude campaign.

However, the University of Arkansas graduate won't be able to keep the car, though, as it was only available via a two-year lease.

2025 has been the first year that the LPGA Tour stopped giving away cars for making a hole-in-one, with leasing vehicles the new method of reward moving forward.

Explaining why this decision was made, LPGA Tour winner Jenny Shin explained on X that "no one wanted [to own a car] because of high taxes and insurance."

After several fans responded asking whether it was possible to just sell the Lamborghini instead of keeping it for two years, Shin suggested there may well be an option to take a cash alternative instead and she believed that's what Matthews was going to do.

Regardless of whether Matthews has a new car in the garage for the next couple of years, she will certainly be at this week's CME Group Tour Championship for the first time thanks to her T9th finish at The Annika.

The former Epson Tour pro was 62nd prior to last week but followed up her opening rounds of 70 and 69 with a 64 and a 65 to end the regular season 59th in the Race To CME Globe.

Matthews said: "It means a lot. I made the decision at the beginning of the week that if I made it or if I didn't, I was going to be okay with it, and I had a really good season and something to build off. Obviously, it's like the icing on the cake."

Matthews ended The Annika on 12-under, seven strokes behind champion Linn Grant who claimed her second LPGA Tour title by three shots.

Per Golfweek’s Beth Ann Nichols, the tournament is set to move from its location of the last three editions, the Club at Carlton Woods in Houston, Texas, to another course in the city, Memorial Park Golf Course.

The municipal course is currently the location for another big event, the PGA Tour’s Texas Children’s Houston Open.

It will be the host of that event again in 2026, with the tournament taking place between March 26^th and 29^th, less than a month before the best of the women’s game come together to contest the Major.

Golfweek contacted the LPGA about the reported change and received a response from chief tour business and operations officer Ricki Lasky, who said:

"We're in active discussions finalizing next season's schedule and are excited about what's ahead,” before adding that the 2026 schedule will be published next week.

The tournament’s long-standing home had been California’s Mission Hills, which had hosted the event since its inception in 1972.

That all changed in 2023, when it moved to its new Texas home less than two years after a six-year sponsorship deal with energy company Chevron Corporation, whose headquarters are in Houston, was announced.

Per Golf Digest, when the move was confirmed, then LPGA Tour commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan said: “I think people know that this is an opportunity for us to sustain this Major moving into the future, build new traditions, still honor the past and honor the great work that's been done.”

However, the 2025 edition, which was won by Mai Saigo, received some criticism for its sparse crowds.

One tradition that had been threatened after the tournament moved was the winner’s jump into a lake, which at Mission Hills had been Poppie’s Pond - a ritual that had been done every year since Amy Alcott won the title in 1988.

Ultimately, the tradition was able to continue at the new home thanks to a natural pond adjacent to the 18th green at the Club at Carlton Woods – once it had been made safe from the threat of alligators and snakes. Saigo was the latest to continue the tradition after she triumphed in a playoff back in April.

Memorial Park Golf Course doesn’t have a pond by the 18th green, but there is water at the course, including a large lake that separates the 16th and 17th greens.

The course underwent an extensive renovation in 2019 in preparation for the Texas Children’s Houston Open’s return to the venue a year later.

The $13.5m project, which was carried out in consultation with Brooks Koepka, saw eight greens moved while the par-5 eighth hole was lengthened. Meanwhile, tees and fairways on the front nine were relocated so ravines could become a factor.

However, at The Annika driven by Gainbridge, where she is the defending champion, the two-time Major winner finds herself three back going into the weekend, with some new clubs helping her in Florida.

Previously, Korda had been using TaylorMade P7MC irons, which provides a blade-style look and a muscle cavity section on the back that aids forgiveness, control and feel on approach shots.

This week, though, those irons have taken a backseat, with Korda opting for the TaylorMade P7CBs, a players cavity iron that was released in 2024 and has been put in the bag of TaylorMade staffers like Collin Morikawa.

Speaking about the swap, Korda stated: "I do have some new irons. I was playing the MC TaylorMades and now I'm in the CBs.

"Just have maybe a little bit more height to them so the descent angle is a little steeper and should land a little softer."

Having been recovering from neck injury, something that meant Korda missed all of the LPGA Tour events in Asia through October and November, the American also made a change to her footwear at The Annika.

Along with being a TaylorMade staffer, Korda is also sponsored by Nike, donning their apparel and footwear since 2023.

At Pelican Golf Club, she debuted the Nike Free Golf 'Nelly Korda,' Golf Shoes which feature a white colorway with lashes of red and yellow. It's inspired by the Zodiac sign Leo, which is predominantly associated with lions and fire, hence the red and yellow colors.

Another design detail is a gold chain on the side which has several charms. Once again, these are aspects that are close to Korda, as the golden charms feature a smiley face, tennis racket and Nike swooshes.

"That to me is a real pinch-me moment that I was able to sit down with a design team and go through what means the most to me in my life, family, tennis, golf, whatever," stated Korda.

"Those are what play a part in the charms, and then the Leo energy, because I am inspired by lions. I love lions. There is just so much that I pull from that to myself."

Prior to the pro-am on Wednesday, Korda actually gifted a pair of her new golf shoes to WNBA star Caitlin Clark, who was competing in the pro-am for a second time in her career.

"So I gifted her some shoes before the round, so hopefully she uses them," stated Korda. "She did say -- or did ask me if they're going to make her golf better and I was like, guaranteed.

"I hope she uses them. I gave her a gift back of this little PE collection, which has been super fun to make.

"I'm very grateful. If you told me this, I don't know, ten years ago when I was in the crowds that I would have my own shoe and be here playing in front of everyone and inspiring the next generation I would tell you you're crazy, so it's been a lot of fun."

Although Korda had new irons and shoes in the bag, it appears the former World No.1 hasn't made the move to the new TaylorMade driver and woods yet.

At the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, both Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood put the new TaylorMade Qi4D driver and fairway woods into play, models that hit the USGA's conforming list the week prior to the tournament.

Korda is also a TaylorMade staffer, but has kept the TaylorMade Qi10 driver and TaylorMade Stealth 2 fairway woods in the bag for now in Florida.

Making four birdies, eight pars, four bogeys and two doubles during her second round, her 18-over-par tournament total meant the granddaughter of US President, Donald Trump, finished dead last in her LPGA Tour debut.

Prior to the event start, Trump revealed that she had not just received advice from her grandfather, but also 15-time Major winner Tiger Woods, who is dating Kai's mother, Vanessa Trump.

Admitting the nerves got the better of her on Thursday, Kai went on to state on Friday that: "When I went out there today I felt very calm and peaceful to be honest with you. That's why I played better.

"I did everything I could possibly have done for this tournament, so I think if you prepare right the nerves can -- I mean, they're always going to be there, right? They can be a little softened. So I would just say that."

Trump was one of the notable names to miss the weekend at Pelican Golf Club, as players battled it out to improve their position in the Race to CME Globe standings.

The Annika is the final tournament of the LPGA Tour's regulation season before the Tour Championship next week, and the big names who missed the one-over-par cut, included Major winners and Solheim Cup stars.

Notable Names Who Missed The Cut At The Annika

Among those who missed the cut by one stroke were Akie Iwai, Megan Khang and Major winner Ayaka Furue, who all finished two-over-par.

Lottie Woad, who recently moved inside the world's top 10, could only finish three-over, while Gemma Dryburgh and Yuka Saso, who needed big weeks, were unable to make the weekend, meaning they won't feature in next week's CME Group Tour Championship.

US Women's Open champion, Maja Stark, as well as Lexi Thompson, both finished five-over-par, while Solheim Cup player Emily Kristine Pedersen was one back at six-over.

Lilia Vu, who claimed two Majors in 2023, is another big name to miss the cut, as the American produced rounds of 74 and 75 to comfortably miss the weekend.

Like Dryburgh and Saso, Vu needed a strong week to be in next week's Tour Championship. The American has struggled with injury throughout the year, sitting well outside the top 60 in the Race to CME Globe standings.

The 18-year-old carded nine bogeys and two double bogeys to sit bottom of the leaderboard on 13 over - four shots adrift of second-last and 19 shots off leader Haeran Ryu after she shot 64.

The Pelican Golf Club proved to be a tough assignment from the start, with Trump kicking off with four straight bogeys before two doubles on her back nine made things even tougher.

But Trump, who has recently confirmed she'll play college golf at the University of Miami, was delighted with the experience of making her LPGA Tour debut.

"It was amazing," Trump said after her round. "I had a great time out there. Yeah, didn't play the way I wanted obviously, but for my first event ever I think I played pretty good.

"I was definitely more nervous than I expected, but I thought I hit a lot of great shots out there. I hit a lot of good shots just to the wrong spots.

"And obviously being, you know, my first LPGA event, now I kind of know how it goes. I felt like a little out of order in the beginning but I kind of got it going afterwards."

Trump was given an invitation into The ANNIKA by Pelican Golf Club owner Dan Doyle Jr, to give the event a boost in publicity.

Altough Trump was naturally some way off the tournament professionals in scoring on her debut, she was right in the mix off the tee.

"It was pretty cool because I know I hit it far, but kind of playing with the best players in the world and being literally right there or even outdriving on some of the holes, it felt pretty good," Trump added.

"Felt like my game is in a good spot, and especially only being a senior in high school. It was cool to see that."

Despite making a few errors, naturally enough for a teenager making her debut, Trump remained pretty level headed and was focused on taking the positives out of the experience.

"I kind of just stayed the same the whole way," Trump said. "Kind of just enjoyed my time out there.

"Obviously I made mistakes and for my first event that's going to happen, but I could have just stayed level the whole time. Like I don't think I really ever got too ahead of myself.

"The whole time I was nervous without a doubt. I thought I did pretty good for just first time, being the youngest player in the field. I had a great time out there."

When those physical limitations are removed or improved that doesn’t necessarily mean that the swing fault disappears. In fact, our minds hold on to the blueprint of our golf swing more than we think.

Just because your back doesn’t hurt anymore doesn’t mean that you’re not going to extend early in your golf swing to protect it.

It’s really interesting that muscle memory or the blueprint of our golf swings is so ingrained into our subconscious that even when there is no pain present, in the mind the body still tells us to “be careful, don’t overdo it, this hurt last time.”

Former Olympic javelin medalist Goldie Sayers said, “There’s definitely a return to the competition phase of rehabbing an injury that’s a bit of an art, as not that much actually mimics the skill you’re returned to when done at speed. I always found visualisation overcomes a lot of the subconscious self-protection of operations and injuries.”

Sayers attributes a higher percentage of fellow athletes not returning to compete due to the fear of re-injury, lower confidence, and decreased motivation.

I find this fascinating and often it’s a journey of rebuilding the trust within us that helps get a golfer back on track. Many golfers assume their golf will immediately return to its best when the pain is gone.

This isn’t always the case. Like having physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises to get your body back in shape after an operation or an injury, the same will apply to your golf swing.

You need to not rush in. You need to rebuild it as physical capability has changed. There’s a chance you’ll have to make some substantial changes. Potentially you’ll swing it totally differently.

That’s why lessons are so important. Your PGA professional can give you drills to help to rebuild confidence, and this isn’t about rebuilding the muscles. This is about regaining the trust in your body's ability to move better.

Now we are not all Tiger Woods, but he's a great example of an athlete who has come back after multiple surgeries and smashed it out of the park. Most famously returning after a spinal fusion surgery to win the 2019 Masters.

I asked a few golfers whether they’d experienced the best golf they’ve ever played once they’ve come back after injury. Or did they decide not to come back at all?

One of my pupils had such a sore knee before having major surgery. His game was really suffering so he quit and hasn’t hit a ball since while he rehabilitates. He admits he’s scared of hitting his first ball as it has skewed his swing so much and resulted in not just pain but poor shots.

Memories of his worst playing season is still there, he's trying to distinguish between the correct alignment and posture from his pain avoidance improvised version, which is fuelling his self.doubt. Compounded with does he swing safe or swing normal and the fear factor of not incurring further injuries is immense.

He’s being careful not to dive in headfirst, managing his expectations is high on the agenda. Almost starting from scratch to get back down to scratch.

Juliet Braxton was a single figure golfer who was a keen skier as well as a great golfer. Then her body decided to throw her a curveball and her golf took a back seat. But after 15 years of various surgeries and operations and being recommended not to play any sports other than walking, Braxton is back playing golf.

“My first few games were truly dreadful as I think I was nervous of harming myself and I was also not as fit as I previously was. I came remarkably close to giving up.

“I decided to have lessons and although there was a marked improvement I found it extremely hard to regain my confidence. My previous handicap was 7 and I was very consistent, but now some of this consistency seems to have left me.

Three years on, I am playing off 15 which is fine, but I still feel I have more to give. During my lessons, my confidence is good, but when I’m on the first tee I feel shaky and unsure of myself. I am hoping time and practice will help to improve my confidence and my consistency will return.”

Jo Florance is back playing golf after her second knee replacement and admits she feels as good as ever. Her golf hasn’t deteriorated and she doesn’t feel phased about playing 18 holes anymore.

Florence’s friend is waiting for a hip replacement. She’s in visible pain walking, but just loves being out on the golf course. Her husband hasn’t looked back since having knee replacements, and although he’s not playing better golf, pain-free golf carries so much more enjoyment.

People with different mindsets come back from injury differently. Are you a golfer who has found new joy after returning to the game after injury, not just because you are pain-free, but because your approach to the game has changed? Are you playing better since having surgery? Let us have your comments below.

More reserved golfers, those who aren’t risk-takers will hold back and perhaps be more cautious. The confident, determined and more bullish players will say, “Hey, I’ve got a new knee. I’m invincible.” They’ll commit to their swing and trust new joints without worrying about doing themselves damage. These golfers will fly after surgery, but can also come back too soon.

The golfers I know who have returned to the game after injury have been through extensive rehab and many have worked out more than they’ve ever done before.

We know that exercise releases happy endorphins and these comeback kings and queens have a big smile on their faces. Those natural painkillers (endorphins) are at work and let’s face it, when we’re fit and healthy we feel great so the chances of coming back after injury and playing better golf could actually be quite high.

The 18-year-old high school senior received a sponsor invite into The ANNIKA and has received similar advice from not only her grandfather but also 15-time Major champion Woods - who is currently dating her mother.

And when talking to Woods about making her LPGA Tour debut, the advice was pretty simple.

"He told me to go out there and have fun and just go with the flow," Trump said of Woods. "Whatever happens, happens."

When does Kai Trump tee off at The ANNIKA?

Trump added on being around Woods: “He is the best golfer in the entire world. I would say that. And an even better person."

Drawn to play alongside Hinako Shibuno of Japan and Germany's Olivia Cowan, Trump will get her LPGA Tour debut under way at 12:32pm ET from the 10th tee at Pelican.

Trump, who will play her college golf at the University of Miami, got her invite thanks to not only her famous grandfather but her online presence - with nearly 8 million social media followers the aim is to bring more eyeballs to the event.

"The idea of an exemption is to bring attention to an event," said Pelican Golf Club owner Dan Doyle Jr, who invited Trump to play.

"She brought a lot of viewers through Instagram that normally don't watch women's golf. (That) was the hopes, and we're seeing it now on Instagram and social media."

Tournament host Annika Sorenstam says having Trump in the field "brings attention to the tournament, to the sport, to women's sport".

"In this case Kai brings a lot of different people to the sport and we want people to hear about our tournament and be part of it," Sorenstam added. "The word is spreading and I think that's a good thing.

"One thing that's different this year, I've never seen so many Secret Service people around here."

President Trump 'running the world right now, so a little busy'

Kai Trump says that she plays plenty of golf with the President, but refused to confirm whether she usually beats him or not.

"He's pretty good," said Kai of her grandfather's golf game. "We have some tight matches. Yeah, can't say much. We have some tight matches.

"I'll leave that up to you to decide [who wins]. I don't know. We play a lot. We have a great time out there. We're always on the same team as well."

The President, who also told her to "go out there and have fun. Just don't get nervous", will be too busy being President to see Kai in action at The ANNIKA.

"He's not coming this weekend," she confirmed. "He's running the world right now, so a little busy. To me he's just a normal grandpa. Always has been.

"It's nothing - I would just say it's like having a normal grandpa. There is nothing different I would say. It's pretty cool obviously, but to me it's just normal."

That will determine the top 60 and ties who will progress to the lucrative and prestigious season finale, the CME Group Tour Championship.

Meanwhile, there is also one of the largest prize funds of the season on offer, $3.25m, of which the winner will pick up a check for $487,500.

By almost anyone's standards, that is a substantial sum of money, while even players finishing further down the leaderboard are set to boost their bank balances considerably.

However, prize money depending on finishing position is not the only financial reward on offer at the tournament, with the season-long Aon Risk Reward Challenge also coming to a head in Florida.

The contest sees one strategically challenging hole selected at each course throughout the season, with players’ two best scores at that hole counting towards a season-long average to par. The player with the lowest average at the end of the regular season claims a one-off $1m prize.

The Annika is the final tournament of the season that counts towards the challenge, with the current leader being Minjee Lee.

Her risk-reward score stands at -0.921 ahead of the tournament, with World No.1 and 2024 Aon Risk Reward Challenge winner Jeeno Thitikul right behind her with a score of -0.912.

Both players have long since booked their places in next week’s season finale, so they are not competing this week.

Of course, for Thitikul, her absence means she can’t improve her average, putting her out of the running. However, the door is ajar for two players to pip Lee at Pelican.

A Lim Kim is the player in third with a risk-reward score of -0.905, while Jennifer Kupcho is in fourth with an average of -0.885.

For either player to take the $1m in the 30th and last counting tournament, they will need an eagle and a birdie at the hole, the 529-yard par-5 14th.

Whether Lee holds onto the top spot without playing remains to be seen, but if either Kim or Kupcho is to take the prize, they will need accuracy off the tee thanks to bunkers in the landing area, while they will also need to be mindful of another bunker guarding the green on their approach.

It inevitably gets plenty of coverage thanks to its high-profile host, 10-time Major winner Annika Sorenstam. Meanwhile, it has one of the largest purses of the LPGA Tour season, at $3.25m.

That’s not all, though. Because of its place in the schedule, the tournament also offers the last opportunity for some players to force their way into the top 60 and ties of the Race to CME Globe and the field for the season finale, the CME Group Tour Championship.

For the last two years, the pro-am has also garnered huge attention thanks to the presence of WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark, while in 2025, as well as the established golfers in the field, it also includes a rising star with a very famous family member.

Kai Trump, granddaughter of US President Donald Trump, makes her LPGA Tour debut at the event thanks to a sponsor’s invite.

The 18-year-old, who is a University of Miami commit, is a promising player currently ranked 461st in the AJGA standings.

However, she also has more than six million social media followers and founded her own apparel and lifestyle brand, which aims to empower young women in sports.

In other words, her appearance at the Pelican Golf Club event can only help generate more interest in the tournament and the women's game in general.

Of course, coming up against the likes of World No.1 Jeeno Thitikul and defending champion Nelly Korda at the tournament, there are few expectations on Trump in terms of where she places.

However, she is certainly not there to make up the numbers. So, who is the caddie she will be using at the tournament to help her perform to the best of her ability?

Trump has turned to Allan Kournikova. If that name sounds familiar, it could be because he’s the half-brother of former tennis star Anna Kournikova.

He has a golf background, too. For example, as a seven-year-old, he starred alongside Alexa Pano in 2013 Netflix documentary The Short Game. He also won the AJGA Pinehurst Junior in 2019.

So, how did the link-up with Trump come about? At her press conference before her LPGA Tour debut, Kai explained that the pair go back a long way.

She said: “Yeah, I mean, I grew up with Allan. Been playing golf with him since I was very, very little. Family friend. There is no one else I would want on the bag besides him.

“He obviously knows golf. He's a great golfer. I thought he would be a great choice because at the same time I also know knew game as well, so if I can have a friend on the bag and a great golfer just going to make my time out there so much better. So I would say that, yeah.”

Regardless of how Trump plays this week, with Allan’s help, she stressed she mainly sees the opportunity as a chance to enjoy it and learn.

She added: “:Obviously I think I'm going to learn a lot no matter what happens. I'm just going to go out there and have fun and see which way it goes.

“I'm going to take a lot away from it. Obviously competing with the best players is going to be cool. To be inside the ropes with them playing with them, learning what kind of shots they hit, what do they do on the course. So, yeah, just looking forward to it and playing with the best.”

The Indiana Fever point guard's season was hampered by injury at various points, restricting her to just 13 appearances, but it has done little to affect her popularity.

During her first appearance in the pro-am a year ago, the basketball star drew large crowds, and we can expect more of the same this year.

To add to the occasion, the 23-year-old will once again be playing alongside World No.2 and three-time winner of The Annika, Nelly Korda.

Before her appearance last year, Clark played down her ability, saying: "I just don’t want to hit anyone with a golf ball. That’s my number one priority."

However, she very nearly did at the third tee, striking the ball with the heel of her club and sending it over the heads of fans stood nearby. Nevertheless, overall, she held her own with some solid golf during her nine holes with Korda.

How will she get on this year? The good news is, even if you're not attending the pro-am, you can see for yourself, as her appearance is being televised by the Golf Channel, with coverage beginning at 10am ET on Wednesday.

The following day, the first round of The Annika takes place, where some big names will be trying to make it to the CME Group Tour Championship, while there will also be an appearance from Donald Trump's granddaughter, Kai.

Caitlin Clark In The Annika Pro-Am: How To Watch

• Wednesday, November 12th: Golf Channel, 10am ET

The penultimate event is also one of the biggest, the Annika Driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, where the world’s best players will tee it up in Florida.

For many big names in the field, their participation in the final event of the season is already assured thanks to strong positions in the season-long Race to CME Globe rankings.

To progress to the Tiburon Golf Club season finale, players need to have secured a place in the top 60 and ties following the penultimate event.

Leading the way is World No.1 Jeeno Thitikul, while other high-profile players assured of their spots in the CME Group Tour Championship include Nelly Korda, Charley Hull, Lydia Ko and this year’s Major winners, Mao Saigo, Maja Stark, Minjee Lee, Grace Kim and Miyu Yamashita.

However, for other well-known players, it’s crunch time at The Annika, with strong performances required to book a place in the season finale.

Here are some of the biggest names with work to do to continue their season, along with their current ranking.

Gemma Dryburgh (67th)

The Scot boosted her chances of reaching the top 60 with a timely T10 at last week’s TOTO Japan Classic.

That was Dryburgh’s best performance this season and lifted her to 67th in the rankings, but she’ll need to back it up with a similar result at The Annika to take her place at the CME Group Tour Championship.

Julia Lopez Ramirez (68th)

LPGA Tour rookie Lopez Ramirez is 68th in the rankings and 64 points beneath 60th, meaning that a big performance is required this week.

The Spaniard has proved she can do it once this season, when she produced a T3 at the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open.

She also contended at the US Women’s Open before a triple-bogey eight on the 72nd hole at Erin Hills saw her place 19th.

Can she hold her nerve in another big tournament and clamber inside the top 60?

Lilia Vu (74th)

A dream 2023 that saw Vu win four times on the LPGA Tour, including two Major titles, helped her move to the top of the world rankings, and she followed that up with another win in 2024.

However, this year has not gone as well for the American, with a runner-up at the Ford Championship her only finish in the top 10.

Vu is 74th in the rankings, and she will need to find form approaching that which saw her claim victory at The Annika in 2023 to extend her season.

Ashleigh Buhai (80th)

The 2022 AIG Women's Open champion began the season well, with a T10 at the Tournament of Champions, closely followed by T11 at the Founders Cup and a tie for ninth at the T-Mobile Match Play.

However, the South African has largely struggled to kick on from there, although in 80th in the Race to CME Globe rankings, all is not lost for her hopes of making it to the season finale.

To achieve it, she will need to aim high at The Annika, with a top three or four finish the likely requirement.

Emily Kristine Pedersen (85th)

The five-time LET winner is 85th in the rankings, with a 164-point gap to make up to 60th at present.

As a result, she will likely need to place in the top three to continue her LPGA Tour season.

The problem for the Dane is that she has not been able to achieve a top-10 finish all season, with a T11 at the Amundi Evian Championship the closest she has come.

Rose Zhang (87th)

Few players made a bigger immediate impact on the professional game as former World No.1 amateur Rose Zhang.

She won her very first event as a pro in 2023, claiming victory at the Mizuho Americas Open and followed that up with a second LPGA Tour victory less than a year later at the Cognizant Founders Cup.

After a T10 at the opening event of the season, the Tournament of Champions, Zhang opted to concentrate on her studies at Stanford for two months.

However, not long after returning to action, she suffered a neck injury, which has played a big part in curtailing her progress this year. As a result, she begins The Annika 87th in the rankings.

Zhang is 195 points behind Cassie Porter in 60th, meaning she’ll need to at least be in the top three to reach the CME Group Tour Championship.

In Gee Chun (103rd)

The three-time Major winner is languishing 103rd in the rankings amid a difficult season where she has failed to finish in the top 10.

The 192 points she has accumulated offers some hope ahead of The Annika, but she may need to win for the first time since the 2022 Women's PGA Championship to book her place in the CME Group Tour Championship.

Yuka Saso (130th)

Since winning her second US Women's Open title in 2024, Saso has just one top-10 finish, placing fourth at last year's Kroger Queen City Championship.

Even more alarming for the Japanese star is the number of missed cuts to her name this year, 14, ensuring she has a mountain to climb to reach the CME Group Tour Championship.

Saso is 130th in the rankings on just 93 points, meaning only a win, which would earn her 500 points, will do.

As the end of the season fast approaches on each of the main global tours, there are plenty of gripping storylines to keep track of.

From players trying to maintain their playing rights at the highest level to season champions being crowned, the coming days will provide conclusions to many of these narratives.

This week, the penultimate PGA Tour event of the year takes place in Bermuda as the race to snatch one of the remaining cards for next term continues while the LPGA Tour is also preparing for its second-to-last tournament - a competition which will ultimately decide who makes the play-offs as well.

The DP World Tour is midway through arguably the biggest week of the year in Dubai and the Asian Tour is enjoying a regular event prior to the incredibly important PIF Saudi International in a few days time. Elsewhere, the Ladies European Tour is without an event until the end of the month.

With that in mind, below are a handful of other interesting storylines from the world of golf this week.

NEW PGA TOUR EVENT UNVEILED

The PGA Tour announced earlier this week that there would be a new addition to the FedEx Cup Fall schedule in September 2026.

Staged at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, which looks as idyllic as it sounds, the Biltmore Championship will take place September 17-20, 2026 and gives Asheville in North Carolina its first tour event in more than 80 years.

The Biltmore Championship has signed a four-year agreement with the PGA Tour and follows on from news of another fresh event which is set to make its debut next term - the Good Good Championship.

KAI TRUMP TO MAKE LPGA TOUR DEBUT

It was announced last month that Kai Trump - granddaughter of US President Donald Trump - had received an invite into The Annika driven by Gainbridge at Pelican. Well, that tournament is this week and 18-year-old Trump is preparing to make her debut on the LPGA Tour.

Ranked 461st in the AJGA standings, Trump has more than six million social-media followers and also founded her own apparel and lifestyle brand which aims to empower young women in sports.

She won't be the only big name at Pelican Golf Club this week, though, as WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark is once again competing in the Pro-Am on Wednesday.

But, once the fun of the Pro-Am is over, all eyes will be fixed on Trump to see how the University of Miami commit fares in the big leagues.

PGA TOUR CARDS DECIDED

This week is massive in terms of the DP World Tour season. Not only will the Race To Dubai be decided - likely in Rory McIlroy's favor - but the 10 PGA Tour cards are handed out to the leading players in the Race To Dubai rankings.

Marco Penge has the chance to deny McIlroy a seventh Race To Dubai title via a couple of different routes, but even if the Englishman comes up a little short, he will simply be aiming to ensure he takes the first PGA Tour card available.

As it stands, Penge is guaranteed starts in the US next year, but he will want the trappings that come with securing the No.1 seed, so to speak.

Elsewhere, Jordan Smith currently possesses the final PGA Tour card and needs a good result to avoid suffering the heartbreak he endured 12 months ago.

This time last year, Smith missed out to Tom McKibbin by one spot, only for the Northern Irishman to leave for LIV Golf in the first few days of 2025 which ensured his English rival could not be subbed in.

DP WORLD TOUR Q-SCHOOL ENDS

At the other end of the DP World Tour, so to speak, there are 20 cards up for grabs in the Final Stage of DP World Tour Qualifying School. The six-day marathon began on Friday and saw several notable names miss the cut after four days.

With just one round to go at Spain's Infinitum Golf, former tour winners and promising talents are sprinting to the line to ensure they have status on the main European circuit in 2026.

ELSEWHERE

• Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy have unveiled the rest of their four-man teams for December's Golf Channel Games
• The DP World Tour announced the creation of the 'Rory McIlroy Award' which recognizes the leading DP World Tour member with the best performance in the four Major championships each year (McIlroy is exempt)
• Mimi Rhodes was announced as the LET's Rookie of the Year following her three-win campaign just months after turning pro
• DP World has extended its long-standing agreement with the European Tour until 2035. DP World will continue its role as the tour's headline sponsor and logistics partner as well as the circuit's season-finale sponsor
• Min Woo Lee confirmed via Instagram (as well as in an interview with the Associated Press) that he would not be leaving for LIV Golf and was sticking with the PGA Tour, despite rumors suggesting the opposite

Whether immersed in the world of golf or simply spectating from a distance, these men have some interesting things to say about women’s golf at club and tour level.

Mark Slater: The Gap Between Golf And Other Sports

The initial reason for writing this piece is that one of my pupils, Mark Slater, recently returned from a golfing trip around the North of England with some eye-opening reflections on how it might feel to be a female golfer.

It’s interesting to note how other sports have significantly increased female players in the past ten years, football and rugby to name two. Football in particular has attracted many thousands of new players whilst in my local golf club there’s no noticeable increase on the course over the same period.

I was fortunate to play at Formby a couple of months ago and couldn’t help being impressed by the magnificent clubhouse and superb course. Then I learnt this is the men’s clubhouse and the ladies have their own clubhouse obscured by the single storey pro shop, and a separate course to play on. I was oblivious to the fact that there are still ladies-only golf clubs.

On the positive side, I know several fellow players whose partners are now actively learning the game. Maybe it just takes more time than other sports, so more of an evolution than revolution.

Eddie Bullock: Redefining The Culture

Eddie Bullock runs a golf consultancy and has worked in the golf industry for a very long time. He sees a significant shift happening in women's golf, one that demands a complete cultural rethink.

It deserves attention… not as a side note, but a sign of where the game as a whole is heading. The traditional architecture of women's golf culture simply doesn’t match the lifestyles of today’s players.

More women entering the game are business owners, professionals, and multi-taskers whose time is precious. They’re looking at golf that fits life, not the other way around.

What stands out most is that the social value of the game now holds equal weight to performance. Many newcomers are discovering the sport through shared experiences: group coaching, social formats, and supportive peer circles.

The World Handicap System (WHS) has divided opinion, but it plays an important role for beginners, making progression easier to understand and track. Being able to monitor improvement digitally and relatively quickly has encouraged more women to feel a part of the golfing community from the start.

This isn’t about the women's game ‘catching up’, it’s about reshaping what golf can be … inclusive, enjoyable, and genuinely welcoming, which benefits everyone.

Dom Oxley-Thorne (PGA Trainee): On-The-Ground Atmosphere

Dom Oxley-Thorne, a first-year PGA trainee at Salisbury and South Wilts Golf Club has his ear to the ground when it comes to female members and notes some encouraging changes.

I’ve only been properly involved in the golf industry for about a year, but I have seen a definite increase in female participation across all types of events, not just the traditional ladies competitions. It feels like there’s a gradual shift towards a more inclusive environment where women are seen as an integral part of the golfing community rather than a separate section of it.

But what do female members tell him about how they feel within the club, do they feel valued?

This is a bugbear amongst many female members at a club, shaking the old aged feeling of being second class members has been a tough one across clubs. It can still be a little more difficult for female members to feel fully accepted within the bigger, mixed groups. Some women are hesitant to join in, perhaps worried about being judged or not fitting in.

However, I’ve seen a real positive shift, particularly on weekends, with more women playing alongside what might once have been seen as traditional men’s groups. The fact that these women return week after week suggests they feel welcomed and respected. There’s a strong sense of value and camaraderie within those circles, though I’m not always sure that same level of appreciation is fully mirrored across the wider membership. It’s improving, but there’s still room to grow.

Visibility On Tour

When it comes to professional women’s golf, Oxley-Thorne sees more of it and feels they’re beginning to be recognised, though there’s a long way to go.

The LPGA has made a real impact in recent years, particularly in changing how people view the women’s game. When it’s on the TV in the pro shop, there’s genuine respect from members for the standard of golf being played. That visibility is invaluable, as it gives female golfers role models to look up to and helps normalise the idea that elite golf isn’t just for men.

The one area still in need of improvement is the quality of venues used for some professional women’s tournaments. Too often, the courses don’t match the standard of play, which can unintentionally undervalue the level of skill on display. The women’s game deserves to be showcased on the same calibre of courses as the men’s, and as exposure continues to grow, I think we’ll see that gap close.

The Real Challenge: Mixed Play And Grassroots

Oxley-Thorne doesn’t often play golf with women, and when he does, it’s usually in a mixed competition or when he is paired with them in an event. He wouldn’t typically play social golf within ladies groups, mainly because his playing circles are quite separate.

This cultural separation highlights where the women’s game faces its biggest challenge: the pipeline of talent. The number of girls taking up golf at a young age is still relatively low, which means many women only start playing later in life, making an already difficult game even tougher to learn and stick with.

Oxley-Thorne adds: Increasing participation at grassroots level is easier said than done. There’s huge competition from other sports, and if golf doesn’t act decisively soon, it risks being left behind. Mainstream sports such as football and rugby are already attracting the majority of funding and media attention in the women’s sporting space.

There’s still a real opportunity for golf to stand out as a unique individual sport, but that window won’t stay open forever. Grassroots investment remains the key to building participation and improving performance across the board. The pathway from junior to adult golf is still some way behind where it needs to be, and strengthening that link will be crucial for the long-term success of the women’s game.

Your Thoughts

Such interesting insights from these three men. Are you a man who feels women’s golf is growing? Do you play mixed golf on a regular basis? What’s the biggest challenge women face? We’d love to know your thoughts and hear about your experiences, good and bad, by commenting in the box below.

The game is changing, but I feel there is a long way to go. Clubs and members need to embrace the different versions of golf on offer these days. Only then will we see true progress, as clubs adapt and remodel the game of golf to suit a variety of women. Here’s to evolution!

After today's final round concludes, the LPGA Tour only has The Annika and the CME Group Tour Championship left in the schedule. Therefore, anyone with Playoff ambitions must make something positive happen very soon or sit and watch the $11 million closing tournament from outside of the ropes.

But before that, there is the small matter of another title to decide and the latest winner's check to hand out at Seta Golf Course in Shiga.

Following a couple of $3 million events over the past few weeks, the TOTO Japan Classic is putting up a more modest total of $2.1 million in 2025 - still $100,000 higher than 12 months prior.

Whichever player pulls through to lift the trophy at the no-cut event will be rewarded with a check for $315,000 and a healthy bunch of Race To CME Globe points.

The runner-up could well see just under $200,000 while finishing third or fourth alone will bank the pros a six-figure pay day.

Ending inside the top-25 should reward players with over $20,000 and anyone who record a top-50 is likely to see almost $7,500.

Below is the complete prize money payout for the 2025 TOTO Japan Classic, with the maximum amount listed for each position before ties are taken into account based on 75 players finishing all four rounds.

TOTO Japan Classic Prize Money Breakdown

Because of this, there is no guarantee that, even if you play regularly, you will achieve the feat over a lifetime.

However, for one player, that has not been proved an issue, and over the course of a month, she made an ace not once but three times.

Lyn Parry achieved her incredible hat-trick at two clubs in Devon, England. The first two aces came at her home club, Downes Crediton, with the third at Tiverton Golf Club.

The 74-year-old explained: “The first one was on the day of our club AGM, the 3rd hole at Downes Crediton.

"It was a sunny afternoon and the greens had just been sanded, so I didn’t see it go in. I knew it was close and when I couldn’t see it, I was thinking ‘don’t tell me it’s gone off the back!’. But no, it was in the hole!

“Because it was the AGM, I was very popular as it meant everyone coming in was getting a free drink!”

Just 16 days later, on October 16^th, she was at it again.

“This time it was our Ladies Day," she said. "And we did see the ball go in on the 13th."

“We all looked at each other saying, 'Has that really just gone in the hole?!' There was a little bit of jumping up and down and a photograph after that one, and so it was drinks all round again!”

Two more weeks went by before Parry, who took up the game 16 years ago at the age of 58, made her third ace in a month at Tiverton.

She admitted her shot had felt good the moment the ball left the club face, saying: “It was a social round with three friends at Tiverton Golf Club and on their 12th hole, I hit one and thought ‘that felt nice!’

"I saw it land just at the bottom of the little bank on the right, and thought it might be close. But I told myself it doesn’t happen in threes, that’s just silly. Then there it was, in the hole!”

Unfortunately for Parry, unlike the other two, on that occasion, she wasn’t able to celebrate immediately after her round.

She explained: “Sadly after the round it was dark and nobody wanted to stay around and the girls asked if we could save the celebrations for another day, so we didn’t go in – which is a bit naughty isn’t it?!”

Incredibly, Parry’s unique trio of aces wasn’t even her first experience of the achievement. The final hole-in-one at Tiverton took her overall tally to five, having made her first two earlier in her career at Downes Crediton.

Parry’s most recent run of aces has also greatly improved her handicap. At the start of the summer, her Handicap Index stood at 19.4, but as she explained, it is a lot better now.

She said: “The gratifying thing is that my handicap has come down by nearly seven shots – and I’m old! It shows that you can never be too old! It will probably go up again soon because it’s hard, but it’s been a great year!"

So, what more does she hope to achieve in the game? The septuagenarian was realistic, saying: “Let’s face it, I’m probably not going to get any better.

“The holes-in-one have just come along a bit like buses, but it’s just for me about having fun. We have a good club, a good atmosphere, everyone’s very friendly and I just want to enjoy my golf at Crediton for as long as I can.”

Changwoo Lee, who was competing at the Moutai Singapore Open on the Asian Tour, found himself disqualified on Thursday, while Muni He, who was competing at the Aramco China Championship on the Ladies European Tour was also disqualified on Friday.

You may wonder what the reasons were for the disqualification? Well, Lee arrived late to his tee time in Singapore, while He signed an incorrect scorecard, leaving both to be disqualified from their respective tournaments.

In fact, for Lee, the South Korean star didn't even hit a competitive shot in the International Series event, as the former Asia-Pacific Amateur winner was late for his tee time.

There is a five-minute period after the official tee time where a player will be handed a two-shot penalty but, because Lee arrived after that five minute period, he was consequently disqualified.

The tee time had been 1.20pm from the 10th tee, with Lee playing alongside Maximilian Rottluff and Sean Ramos.

In terms of He, the Chinese star was teeing it up in her home country and the final PIF Global Series event of the season.

Carding a four-under 69 first round, He then produced a level-par 73 on Friday, but was then disqualified after the 26-year-old signed an incorrect scorecard.

Releasing a statement to her Instagram story following the disqualification, He wrote: "Hi everyone, just a quick update, I won’t be playing tomorrow here in Shenzhen due to signing the wrong scorecard.

"This is the first time this has happened in my 20 years of playing competitive golf. I’m extremely disappointed that this happened here in China, in front of my home crowd. However, as a golfer, I wished to take accountability for the situation.

"I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve received this entire week, and thank you to all the fans that came out and watched."

Going into the final round of the Moutai Singapore Open, Jeunghun Wang, James Piot and Soomin Lee lead at 15-under, as 18 players sit within four shots of the leaders at The Singapore Island Country Club.

At Mission Hills China, home favorite Ruixin Liu claimed the individual victory by three shots after rounds of 70, 65 and 68.

The team event was won by Mimi Rhodes' side, as Rhodes, Kristyna Napoleaova, Trichat Cheenglab and Kultida Pramphun fired a 39-under total to win by four strokes.

Fast forward to now, and my relationship with golf feels totally different. I’m no longer a complete novice. I know what works for me, what doesn’t, and how it feels when I strike the ball well. That understanding makes the process much more collaborative. Instead of placing all my trust in the coach as the expert and me as the student absorbing information, it feels like a partnership. We’re analysing things together, working out what’s happening, and why.

My Experience Playing Golf In Costa Rica

Over the past couple of years, I’ve spent a lot of time playing in Costa Rica, where I joined La Iguana Golf Club. I was playing regularly, surrounded by more experienced golfers, and I learned a lot just by watching how they managed the course. My etiquette improved, I became more confident with different players, and I found a rhythm to my game that felt calm and natural.

More importantly, I remembered that golf is meant to be fun. Somewhere in my beginner phase, I’d lost a bit of that: overthinking, chasing constant improvement, and worrying too much about my bad shots.

But while I gained confidence, I also hit a bit of a wall. I’d fallen into a pattern of relying on the same few clubs: my driver, 7 wood, hybrid, pitching wedge and putter. Occasionally, I’d throw in an 8 or 9 iron, but I was basically getting around the course with a half set. It worked, but it wasn’t complete golf. I couldn’t shape or control the ball the way I wanted. I couldn’t achieve my goal of breaking 100 and my scores were consistently sitting between 115 and 105. That’s when I realised it was time to invest in more coaching.

Why It Was Time To Return To Lessons

When I was playing in Costa Rica, I wasn’t able to see my swing and analyse it properly. I’d get feedback from more experienced golfers, but without being able to visualise it - and without knowing that the golfer fully understands the complexity of a swing rather than just an isolated glitch - you can get a bit stuck on how to improve. Having lessons again has been a great investment. Otherwise, you’re just trusting someone’s opinion without truly understanding what’s happening.

Having returned to the UK this summer, I started working with a local coach, Richard Lally, at Aspley Guise Golf Club. He offered me a package of both simulator lessons and outdoor sessions. I love this balance. The simulator gives you clear, visual, technical feedback, while the outdoor practice gives you the on course feedback you just cannot replicate indoors. It really does feel like the best of both worlds, and it has reminded me how valuable consistent coaching can be. As Richard put it, “The key is to stay on the lesson train. Ideally, golfers should keep having lessons. That is how you keep progressing.”

Lessons 1–2: Relearning The Fundamentals

In our first couple of sessions, we made small but important changes. I adjusted my grip, corrected my wrist hinge, and worked on rotating my hips more through the swing. I’d been hitting my irons a bit like a lob shot before, open faced and high, which was costing me distance.

We also discovered that what I thought was a half swing was actually a more controlled full swing. By staying more compact and controlled, I added around 20 yards to my 9 iron distance. The simulator helped confirm that improvement, showing cleaner strikes and better compression.

Understanding why each change mattered made a huge difference. It wasn’t just about copying movement anymore. It was about feeling the effect and seeing the results almost immediately.

Lesson 3: The “Golden” Piece

By the third lesson, everything came down to one simple thought: clubface, clubface, clubface.

The clubface is really responsible for the initial launch direction. When your clubface is open, that’s what’s causing your shots to go off. It sounds simple, but getting that awareness right changes everything.

My coach described integrating this change as “Tai Chi golf”, an analogy that really stuck with me. Slowing down the movement and not getting caught up in the anxiety of the outcome helped everything click. We worked on avoiding an early wrist release (or casting), which was stealing power and accuracy. Once I started holding the angles longer, my shots felt more compressed, more solid.

As Richard explained, “One of the secrets to lessons is finding that one thought that kills five birds with one stone. It’s not always easy - sometimes it’s trial and error - but every now and then you find the one thought that makes everything else fall into place.”

Lessons 4–5: Taking It To The Course

I really enjoy learning outside and feeling nature support me. At this stage, it’s been invaluable to take what I’ve worked on in the simulator and on the range and apply it to the course. Having a coach watch how those changes hold up under pressure is really useful.

These sessions also sharpened my short game awareness. My putting has been steady for a while; I’ve got a consistent stroke and read greens well, but maintaining a smoother tempo will make it even stronger.

Chipping, though, has become my main focus area. Improving my accuracy and distance control around the greens is where I know I can really start saving shots, something that’s key to achieving my goal of breaking 100.

The Mindset Shift

Another thing I noticed through this process is that now I’ve been playing for a couple of years, my mindset on the course has completely changed. I remember feeling intimidated by everything going on around me: the group behind, the players watching, the pressure to keep up. That feeling has shifted from “I must keep up” to “I’ll show you how good I am.”

One of the main things you’ve got to do is just breathe. Slow down. Take a deep breath. Concentrate on your own game. You’ve got to put yourself in your own bubble.

My coach Richard summed it up perfectly: “Instead of seeing it as something to be a victim about, use it as fuel.”

That’s stuck with me. It reflects the way I try to approach every round, less about fear, more about focus and confidence. Even if you don’t feel confident, the more you try to embody it, stick to the plan, and not let your emotions take over, the more this will become your new normal.

What Comes Next

As this series of lessons comes to an end, I have been thinking about what progress really means. It is not just about breaking 100 anymore.

Richard has helped me see that improvement is never finished. It is about constantly refining small details, trusting yourself and staying curious. Each lesson has given me something new to build on and a clearer sense of how to get the best out of my game.

These golf lessons have also reminded me that progress does not move in a straight line. Some days everything flows, other days it feels like starting again. But that is part of it. The challenge, the patience, the quiet moments when something finally clicks.

I still want to break 100, but the real value has been understanding my game on a more technical level and continuing to focus on the simplicity of improvement. Progress starts to come naturally once things are broken down to suit your game. The more you invest in yourself, the more golf gives back. If you have been waiting for a sign to book that next lesson, this is it.

The beauty of a vest lies in its armless design, as it feels less restrictive than a jacket, giving you a full range of motion. Yet, despite their light feel, they provide that essential bit of extra warmth and protection exactly when you need it, particularly on cool mornings or breezy afternoons.

Modern golf vests are sleek, often lightly padded for comfort, and come in an array of colors and styles to suit any outfit. Some are also reversible, so two for the price of one represents great value! They are also incredibly practical: easy to pack, they can be folded and stashed in your golf bag, ready to be worn the moment the temperature drops.

Below, we have taken a look at some of the best women’s golf vests to consider, as tested by our team of female contributors. Alternatively, make sure you check out our guides on the best women's golf clothes and best women's golf shoes too, or the best golf tops in the game.

Best Women's Golf Vests 2025

How we test golf clothing

Here at Golf Monthly, our testing for women’s golf clothes is built upon a comprehensive process combined with the knowledge and expertise of Golf Monthly’s female team, headed up by our women’s editor Alison Root. As far as the specific procedure goes, prior to testing, the team will usually attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer's R&D experts to understand the new technology in each piece of clothing.

When it comes to testing the best women's golf clothes, we head out to the course to try them over a number of rounds. We look to try to use each item in as many different conditions as possible to give us the best feel of how they perform.

For a vest, freedom of movement has to be a priority, so the cut and type of fabric is vitally important. In addition, its overall fit and comfortability, level of warmth and protection, and of course, women want to look good, so the choice of colors and styling are taken into consideration.

It should also be mentioned that manufacturers cannot pay for a good review and we make our conclusions from the testing and our experiences.

What to consider when buying a golf vest

So what are some of the factors you need to consider when trying to find the right golf vest for you? Let's take a look.

Protection

A good vest will help to keep you warm in cooler weather. The best models stop the wind penetrating the fabric and making your core cold, and also have nice features like fleece lined pockets and well structured collars to give you some respite in poor conditions.

Freedom of movement

Good protection is one thing, but vests also have to be the right weight to allow complete freedom of movement when swinging a club or walking from hole to hole. The best golf vests stretch and move with the body, whilst allowing arms to swing freely. Vests should be the right length for your body shape to avoid any riding up that interferes with your swing. Acknowledging these points, we recommend trying some on first to see how they fit and feel when walking around and when making swings.

Color

If you are wearing it, you have to like what it looks like. Vests don't have to be boring and dull anymore either because now there are colors and styles to suit all tastes. Some are reversible, too, providing women with the option to mix and match outfits. It is just a case of picking a design and color you like.

Budget

Finally, be aware of your budget so you can find a vest that fits into it nicely. Importantly there are models above which come with premium, and value price points so there is something for everyone.

FAQs

For more golf apparel buying advice, check out our guides on the best golf vests or best golf hoodies.

To give you some background, I began the season having to submit 20 cards because I had lapsed as a club member. It was also a chance to obtain a more realistic handicap than the 11.8 I had achieved when I was playing more regularly a good while ago.

"Great idea," I thought. "I’ll soon get back into what I should ideally be doing each week under the World Handicap System, putting a card in when I play."

What started off with a few steady rounds at the start of the season, playing to 16 and 17, a handicap I was happy with and could work to, soon spiralled. As the months wore on, I hit a bad slump in form.

That’s golf, I know it happens, but when Saturday came around, people were encouraging me to put a card in saying, "You want to get your handicap up." While that was true to a certain extent, each time, I was putting so much pressure on myself to still score well that it simply wasn't fun. Inevitably, my game just got worse.

I started thinking about the carefree rounds I’d played over the last few years with friends and industry colleagues. Of course, I cared how I played, you always want to play to the best of your ability and not look like you’ve never picked up a club before, but most importantly, I didn't think twice about my score, and I always enjoyed my golf.

A few weeks ago, coming to the end of the season anyway, I made the simple decision to not enter any more competitions or put a card in. That Saturday, playing a friendly four-ball better-ball, I got my mojo back. It was the first day in a very long time that I genuinely enjoyed club golf.

Don't get me wrong, I'm going to commit to improving my golf during the winter months, and I will enter competitions again next season. But there's a lot of truth in the saying: golf is what you want it to be. We're lucky to have so many different options and formats nowadays. If you want to just play 9 holes, or hit balls at the range, that’s ok.

I guess I was just brought up on the idea that you play the traditional weekly comp with a card in your hand. But it honestly became a chore, something I wasn't looking forward to. Since golf is my leisure time and I pay a substantial club membership fee for the privilege, I'm glad I've parked the card marking for the time being.

Ultimately, it does make you question: Why do I play golf? Everyone is different; some of you reading this will totally relate to what I’m saying, while for others, the game just isn't as central to their life as it is to mine. I’d be interested to hear your comments in the box below.

I know somewhere deep down, I’m probably trying to hang on to the golfer I once was with that 11.8 handicap, and I know that as soon as I chill out, the good golf will happen.

Maybe it's my ego, in this industry I’m surrounded by great golfers. Unfortunately, it is a sport where you are often judged on your handicap. But I also realise golf is a selfish sport, the only person that truly cares is me.

So, I’m now up to 13.3, my best cards from as far back as 2018 and 2019 are slowly being knocked off. I’m still not playing to my handicap, but it's the best I've played in a long time. I'm loving golf again and cannot ask for more than that!

But this newsletter is yours as much as it is Alison Root's, Golf Monthly's women's editor. We want this to be a place where we can all connect. You can sign up here, and if any of the topics Alison has raised resonate with you, please make your comments in the box below and help us get the conversation started!

Every Tuesday, Alison will share her thoughts on the latest talking points, from the professional tours through to club life. We'll keep things informative, engaging, and most importantly, fun!

You can also expect instruction tips, equipment advice to boost your game, and the latest fashion trends that Alison and the team of female contributors can't wait to showcase.

We'll look look forward to growing Golf Monthly's women's golf community together!

Carding a seven-under 65 in regulation play, the Japanese star matched the 18-under-par scores set by Major winner Hannah Green and 12-time LPGA of Korea Tour winner Hye-Jin Choi.

However, upon the finish of regulation play, the final round was then suspended for over half an hour due to inclement weather and, when the trio did return for the playoff, it was Yamashita who was the only player to birdie to win the tournament and a second LPGA Tour title of 2025.

Beginning the final round, it was Choi who held a comfortable four shot advantage but, on a day where scores were in the 60s, the 26-year-old found herself going backwards.

Parring her first seven holes, a birdie-bogey run finished out her front nine, with two bogeys and a sole birdie on the back giving her a one-over-par 73 and 18-under total.

That matched both Yamashita and Green, with the latter producing a four-under round on Sunday that included seven birdies and three bogeys.

Yamashita, on the other hand, opened with three birdies over her first five holes, before back-to-back gains on the 10th and 11th, as well as a birdie at the 13th, put her one back of the leaders.

Following it up with another birdie at the 16th, two closing pars put the 24-year-old into the clubhouse with the target and, with Green and Choi matching it, we headed for a rare playoff.

Following the delay due to rain, the players made their way back to the tee and, in the playoff, it was Yamashita who secured the victory with a birdie, making her just one of a handful of players to win twice on the LPGA Tour in 2025.

The victory adds to her Major triumph at Royal Porthcawl in August, and is also Yamashita's second career title in only her first full year on Tour.

The Maybank Championship - which only launched in 2023 - is the penultimate tournament in the LPGA Tour's Asian Swing before the US circuit heads back Stateside for The Annika and the subsequent CME Group Tour Championship.

As a result, the pressure has been on this week to secure as many Race To CME Globe points as possible before the TOTO Japan Classic and the sprint to the finishing post. As usual, there are a grand total of 500 points available at the Maybank Championship.

Last year's winner Ruoning Yin and inaugural champion Celine Boutier both began the tournament with hopes of another victory, as did World No.1 and Race To CME Globe leader, Jeeno Thitikul.

Whoever comes out on top in the $3 million event is once again destined to earn an impressive $450,000, as was the case in each of the first two editions, with the runner-up set to claim around $280,000 for their efforts at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club.

Each of the top-six should scoop a six-figure sum for their impressive finish while those in the top-30 could claim upwards of $30,000. Anyone in T50th or better could easily walk away with in excess of $10,000 in prize money.

Simply making the cut will be the least most players in the field will be aiming for this week, with a handful of points joining a check for just under $7,000 as the minimum reward.

Below is the maximum amount of prize money each position will earn at the 2025 Maybank Championship, based on 65 players making the cut.

Maybank Championship Prize Money Breakdown