The golf scene is buzzing with events as the Canadian Women’s Open prepares to kick off in Edmonton, the FedEx Cup playoffs heat up in St. Louis, and the future of the rebel LIV league hangs in the balance. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening:
Canadian Women’s Open:
Known as the CPKC Women’s Open, the prestigious LPGA Tour event returns to Edmonton’s Royal Mayfair after an eight-year hiatus. With a prize purse of $2.75 million USD ($412K going to the winner), the tournament boasts a stellar lineup featuring six of the top 10 golfers worldwide. Notable absentees include third-ranked Haeran Ryu, No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul, and English stars Lottie Woad and Charley Hull. Lydia Ko, currently ranked 12th globally, aims to secure her fourth Canadian Open title, with her last victory at Royal Mayfair in 2013. Meanwhile, Canadian favorite Brooke Henderson eyes a repeat win after clinching her second title last year in Mississauga.
FedEx Cup playoffs:
As the women’s golf season extends into November, the PGA Tour is nearing its climax with the BMW Championship in St. Louis, where the top 50 players will battle for a spot in the Tour Championship in Atlanta. The winner of the Tour Championship stands to claim a hefty $10 million from the $40 million prize pool. Scottie Scheffler’s recent victory secured him the top spot in the points race along with a $23 million bonus. Though no Canadians advanced past the St. Jude Championship, those who qualified for the playoffs received a bonus of around $180K each.
LIV League:
The future of the LIV Golf league hangs in uncertainty as the season comes to a close amid financial struggles. With Jon Rahm securing his third consecutive individual title, the fate of the league remains uncertain following the withdrawal of Saudi funding. CEO Scott O’Neil is on a quest to secure new investors to sustain the tour, but with key players like Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed already exiting earlier this year, the league’s survival is in question. The remaining stars, including Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, face a pivotal decision on their future in professional golf.