Total prize money from 35 competitions: $131 million
Molly Marku, Chief Executive Officer of the LPGA Tour, said ahead of the opening of the CME Group Tour Championship on the 21st (Korean time), “Next year, the world’s best players will compete in 35 competitions for a prize money of $131 million (approximately 183.33 billion won). “We plan to unfold it,” he said.
This is the largest prize money in the tour’s 75-year history.
The LPGA Tour has recorded continuous growth over the past four years, increasing the total prize money of all competitions to more than $62 million (approximately KRW 86.73 billion). The total prize money for the 2025 season is an increase of approximately 90% compared to 2021.
On this day, Thurman said, “The 2024 season was another year of historic growth for the LPGA Tour,” and “The 2025 season schedule is focused on further developing this growth.”
He said, “Next year, two new competitions will be added, and the prize money will be larger. “CME Group has extended its sponsorship contract until 2027, and benefits have been added to improve players’ performance,” he explained.
He added, “Regional travel routes have been improved, and the off-season period has been further extended to provide players with the rest they need.”
The tour will take place in 11 countries, including 14 U.S. states, and will include two Asian swing dates.
The first Asian swing takes place early in the season in February and March, while the second takes place in October and November.
In particular, the Hanwha Life Plus International Crown held in Korea will be held again in the second Asian schedule. The European schedule takes place in the summer.
Additionally, as already announced, the Black Desert Championship will be added, which is the only U.S. tournament that provides private jets to LPGA players and is scheduled to be held in May next year.
Additionally, the LPGA Tour will host the Riviera Maya Open in Cancun, Mexico for the first time in eight years since 2017.
Following this year’s season’s final event, the CME Group Tour Championship, which surpassed $4 million (approximately KRW 5.6 billion) in prize money for the first time on tour, nine tournaments have already announced plans to increase prize money next season compared to this year.
In addition, 24 competitions are planning to further improve player treatment in addition to increasing the prize money by announcing plans to provide tour participation support, free accommodation, and guaranteed minimum prize money.
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What impact do new sponsorships have on the growth of women’s golf in the LPGA Tour?
Interview Between Time.News Editor and Molly Marku, CEO of LPGA Tour
Time.News Editor: Welcome, Molly! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the exciting developments in the LPGA Tour. Let’s dive right in! The 2025 season is set to feature the largest prize pool in the tour’s history. How does it feel to reach a total prize money of $131 million?
Molly Marku: Thank you for having me! It’s incredibly rewarding to see that growth, especially as we celebrate the LPGA’s 75-year history. This is a significant milestone for us and reflects our commitment to elevating women’s golf. With more players joining us and increased sponsorships, it’s an exciting time for the tour.
Time.News Editor: Speaking of sponsorships, it appears that the CME Group has extended their partnership. How will this continued support impact the tour and the players?
Molly Marku: The CME Group’s commitment has been instrumental in our growth. Their extended sponsorship until 2027 not only ensures greater prize money but also enhances player benefits. We’re incorporating better travel arrangements and improving off-season periods, which directly support players’ performance and well-being.
Time.News Editor: It sounds like you’re prioritizing the players’ experience. Can you share more about the plans to improve player treatment in the upcoming season?
Molly Marku: Absolutely! We’re excited to announce that many competitions will offer improved accommodations and support. This year, 24 tournaments will provide guarantees for minimum prize money, free lodging for players, and travel support. These initiatives are meant to ensure that players can focus on their game, without added stress.
Time.News Editor: The schedule for the upcoming season is quite ambitious, with events in 11 countries. What do you see as the significance of this international presence?
Molly Marku: The international aspect is crucial for the growth of the LPGA Tour. Engaging fans in different regions helps elevate the sport globally. We’re particularly thrilled to host the Hanwha Life Plus International Crown in Korea again, along with the Riviera Maya Open in Mexico. These events not only allow players to showcase their talents but also engage a diverse audience.
Time.News Editor: You mentioned two new competitions being added. What can you tell us about those?
Molly Marku: The addition of new events is part of our strategy to keep the tour fresh and engaging. One notable tournament is the Black Desert Championship, which will uniquely provide private jets for players — a first in U.S. tournaments. This is a testament to our dedication to enhancing the experience for our players.
Time.News Editor: With all these changes, what are your hopes for the 2025 season in terms of growth and player participation?
Molly Marku: I hope for continued growth, not just in prize money but also in participation and viewership. Our aim is to create a thriving ecosystem for women’s golf where players can feel valued and competitive in a supportive environment. We’re committed to exceeding the expectations we’ve set for ourselves and elevating the sport to new heights.
Time.News Editor: Thank you, Molly, for sharing such exciting insights about the upcoming LPGA Tour season. We’re looking forward to following the developments!
Molly Marku: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to a fantastic season ahead, and I appreciate the support from all the fans and followers of women’s golf.