The US Women’s Open is taking place with a record prize fund of $12 million. This major event comes at a key moment for women’s golf, which is facing challenges despite its top players and increased prize money. A new LPGA Tour commissioner, Craig Kessler, has just been appointed to bring fresh energy and stop a period of slow growth in the sport.
The tournament is held at Erin Hills in Wisconsin, the same course that hosted the men’s US Open in 2017. Fans and experts hope this event will help revive interest in women’s golf as the LPGA marks its 75th anniversary.
Craig Kessler, 39, will officially start as LPGA commissioner in mid-July. He is moving from the PGA of America to take over from Mollie Marcoux Samaan. Kessler is seen as a young and confident leader and is expected to bring new ideas to the LPGA. His predecessor, Mike Whan, led the tour for over a decade during a golden era when prize money nearly doubled and the sport gained more attention.
The US Open’s opening rounds have been planned to attract TV viewers. Leading players such as Jessica Korda, Charley Hull, and Lexi Thompson are grouped together in a prime-time slot. Hull is ranked 17th in the world and Thompson is semi-retired, but both have large fanbases and strong social media presence. This shows how important visibility and marketability are for the sport today.
After Mike Whan left, the LPGA faced several setbacks. Under Mollie Marcoux Samaan, the tour struggled with player relations and sponsorship problems. A planned merger with the Ladies European Tour did not happen, and the LET instead formed new partnerships. There were also issues at last year’s Solheim Cup, unpaid broadcast rights in South Korea, and key staff departures. These challenges led to Samaan’s resignation late last year. Many insiders believe Kessler must rebuild trust with players, sponsors, and fans to restore the tour’s strength.
Kessler’s main goals include building trust with all stakeholders and increasing the visibility of the sport’s top stars beyond traditional broadcasts. The LPGA’s 75th anniversary is seen as a good time for a fresh start to grow the fan base and secure a strong financial future.
Women’s golf is often described as being at a crossroads. While female athletes in sports like football and basketball are gaining more media attention, women’s golf has not kept pace. Although players like Jessica Korda and Lydia Ko have won major titles and gained fame, the sport has not fully capitalized on their success. Golf needs to become a top destination for fans and media once again.
The US Women’s Open is a demanding test at a challenging course. Jessica Korda tees off in a high-profile group that is expected to draw strong TV ratings. Charley Hull is the leading British contender but has struggled recently in majors. Japan’s Yuka Saso defends her title and the $2.4 million winner’s prize.
Craig Kessler will be closely watching the event, hoping it marks a new era for women’s golf.
