Amy Yang, a 34-year-old golfer from the Republic of Korea, achieved a major victory by winning the 2024 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. It was her first major championship win after 17 years on the LPGA Tour. Yang’s final score of seven-under-par was enough to secure a three-shot victory over her competitors. This win made her the oldest player to win a major since 2018 and also earned her a spot on the Republic of Korea’s Olympic Team. Yang’s consistent play and focus throughout the tournament led to her success, despite facing some challenges in the final round.
The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, in its 70th year, has seen significant improvements over a decade-long partnership between the PGA of America, the LPGA, and KPMG. The tournament now boasts a $10.5 million purse, one of the highest in women’s golf, and has increased the winner’s share significantly. Additionally, the championship has introduced courses like Sahalee Country Club to the players, offering a unique and challenging experience for the competitors. The partnership has also led to the establishment of the KPMG Leadership Summit, promoting female professionals’ advancement to C-Suite positions in various industries.
The tournament featured a field of 156 players, including top-ranked players like Nelly Korda and Yuka Saso, who fell short of expectations. While Yang emerged victorious, other notable competitors missed the cut or failed to make an impact during the tournament. The challenging Sahalee course tested even the best of players, with just 106 rounds at par or below. Despite the difficulty, golfers appreciated the venue and acknowledged the need for patience and accuracy to succeed.
Lexi Thompson, who recently announced her semi-retirement, surprised many with her strong performance at the championship. Thompson finished tied for ninth after a rough start in the final round, showcasing her determination and fighting spirit on the course. The championship also served as the final opportunity for golfers to secure a spot on their respective country’s Olympic team, with Amy Yang earning a spot on the Republic of Korea’s team thanks to her victory at the tournament.
Women’s golf continues to grow and thrive, with initiatives like the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf program introducing the sport to young girls across the US. The overall number of female golfers has seen a significant increase in recent years, indicating a positive trend for the sport. The success of major championships like the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship contributes to the continued growth and popularity of women’s golf, inspiring more women to take up the game and compete at the highest levels.
