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LPGA Commissioner Apologises After Tournament of Champions Ends Early

Posted : 04 February 2026

LPGA commissioner Craig Kessler apologised on Tuesday for the handling of the season-opening Tournament of Champions, which was shortened over the weekend due to extreme weather conditions in Orlando. The decision drew criticism from players and fans after uncertainty surrounded the final day of competition.

Unseasonably cold temperatures at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club played a major role in the disruption. While the pro-am event was allowed to proceed on Sunday, the final round of the professional tournament was repeatedly delayed. Eight players eventually began the round before officials canceled it entirely, reducing the event to 54 holes.

As a result, world No. 1 Nelly Korda, who held the lead after three rounds, was declared the tournament winner. The decision sparked debate, particularly because the LPGA calendar allowed for flexibility, with the next event in Thailand not scheduled to begin until February 19.

In a memo sent to players, Kessler explained that safety concerns drove the call to shorten the tournament. He cited record-low overnight temperatures that hardened the course and increased the risk of injury. While acknowledging that the move conflicted with earlier messaging, he said it was a judgement call made in real time.

Kessler admitted that, in hindsight, the situation could have been handled differently. He accepted responsibility for the confusion caused by the league’s decisions and conceded that communication with players and fans was neither timely nor clear. He described the frustration as justified and offered a direct apology.

Looking ahead, Kessler outlined steps the LPGA plans to take to avoid similar issues. These include developing clearer guidelines for play in extreme conditions, improving weekly contingency planning, and delivering faster, more transparent communication during weather-related disruptions.

Runner-up Amy Yang of South Korea, who finished three shots behind Korda, shared mixed feelings about the outcome. While she wished she had the chance to compete in the final round, Yang acknowledged that the conditions were extremely challenging and said the greens were unplayable when players prepared for a resumed start.

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