The LPGA Tour is experiencing a pivotal moment as women’s golf gains unprecedented attention, driven by tournaments like the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship with a record $12 million prize fund. Prominent golfer Nelly Korda demands prime-time TV coverage to give women’s golf the recognition it deserves and shrink the existing exposure gap.

Korda’s push for better broadcasting support is shared by LPGA veteran Mel Reid, who highlights that despite rising prize money, television coverage remains insufficient. Reid pointed out the impact of fan engagement through attendance and viewership, both crucial to providing the players with the platform they need to grow the sport’s audience.

Expanded Broadcast Efforts Aim to Reach Wider Audiences

In response to these concerns, the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship has significantly increased its live coverage, offering nearly 100 hours of streaming across NBC, Golf Channel, and Peacock. This expansion illustrates a commitment to raising the profile of women’s golf by bringing it to more viewers worldwide and celebrating the talents showcased on the LPGA Tour.

Leadership and Optimism Fueling the LPGA’s Future

LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler is spearheading this transformation and is supported by players such as Michelle Wie West, who express confidence in the tour’s direction. Wie West believes that with continued investment and strategic growth, the gap in exposure can be effectively bridged in the near future. Upcoming tournaments and increased prize money further reinforce this positive trajectory.

Wie West emphasized the vital role of adequate broadcast coverage and technological innovation to highlight both the entertainment value and skill level within women’s golf. She advocates for greater support to elevate the sport’s stature and attract broader fan interest.

Players’ Voices Driving Change and Engagement

As the LPGA Tour looks ahead, the collective advocacy from athletes including Nelly Korda, Mel Reid, and Michelle Wie West is a powerful force pushing for progress. With enhanced broadcast exposure, improved technology, and strengthened fan engagement, the LPGA Tour stands ready to boost its popularity and captivate golf enthusiasts around the globe.

“Despite the increase in prize money, the broadcast coverage still falls short of giving the players the platform they deserve.” —Mel Reid, LPGA Tour veteran
“We need support and investment in women’s golf to elevate the tour to new heights.” —Michelle Wie West, LPGA player