The 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, held at Fields Ranch East in Frisco, Texas, has become a formidable battle as golfers contend with extremely tough course challenges. World No. 1 Nelly Korda described the hole placements as “almost impossible,” highlighting the relentless conditions players face in this major tournament where skill and endurance are being pushed to their limits.
Course Difficulties Amplified by Weather and Layout
Strong winds and firm greens have made the course layout particularly unforgiving, forcing players to confront slow play and challenging shots. These factors caused delays in the broadcast schedule, keeping fans deeply engaged as the competition unfolded. The scoring average on Saturday reached a remarkable 76.065, the highest seen in a major on the LPGA Tour in the past decade, underlining the course’s difficulty. Only two holes have averaged below par through the tournament, further illustrating how demanding the setup has been compared to other events held at the same venue, such as the 2023 Senior PGA Championship, which featured more manageable conditions.
Standout Performances Amid the Pressure
Despite the harsh environment, some players have distinguished themselves. Minjee Lee currently leads the championship, demonstrating impressive resilience, while Jeeno Thitikul also continues to perform strongly. Their ability to navigate the grueling course highlights the high level of competition and the importance of every stroke as the tournament approaches its final round.
Efforts to Maintain Playability in Extreme Heat
Officials at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship have been diligently working to keep the greens as soft as possible amid intense heat and persistent winds, aiming to preserve fairness for all competitors. However, with the weather expected to remain challenging, players are preparing themselves for another demanding day ahead.
Looking Ahead: A Test of Endurance and Skill
As the championship progresses, the 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA at Fields Ranch East is proving to be a true test of mental toughness and physical stamina for the world’s best golfers. With the leaderboard tight and the conditions unyielding, the final rounds promise to deliver intense competition and memorable moments for players and fans alike.