Particle.news

LPGA Shortens Tournament of Champions to 54 Holes as Nelly Korda Claims Season Opener

Tour officials said freezing wind and hard ground made safe, 72-hole completion unrealistic.

Overview

  • The LPGA reduced the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions to 54 holes because of sub‑freezing temperatures, strong winds and an unfavorable short‑term forecast.
  • Nelly Korda was declared the winner at 13 under for her 16th LPGA title after her eight‑under 64 on Saturday established a multi‑shot lead.
  • Play was halted late Saturday when gusts blew a ball off the 17th green, and officials later determined the course could not support a full final round or a Monday finish.
  • Several contenders completed their remaining third‑round holes on Sunday, with Amy Yang finishing three shots back in second, Brooke Henderson third and Lydia Ko fourth.
  • The celebrity competition proceeded over nine holes, prompting criticism and confusion from some players and observers, while the LPGA defended the decision on safety and fairness grounds.