In a groundbreaking move, CME Group has committed to a historic investment in the LPGA Tour Championship, boosting the purse from $7 million to an impressive $11 million for the upcoming season. Not only does this solidify the tournament as the most lucrative in women's golf, but it also marks a significant milestone in the sport's financial landscape.
CME Group CEO Terry Duffy, expressing a commitment to catalyzing positive change in women's golf, highlighted the company's role as a catalyst, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable. The winner's share will experience a remarkable increase from $2 million to an unprecedented $4 million, setting a new standard for financial rewards in women's golf. Moreover, every participant in the championship is guaranteed to earn a minimum of $55,000 for their week of play.
This substantial investment reaffirms CME Group's dedication to the LPGA Tour, as they extend their partnership for an additional two years. The move not only elevates the financial stature of the championship but also mirrors a broader effort to advance women's golf.
Terry Duffy acknowledged the company's desire to be a catalyst for women's golf and emphasized the impact of their influence on major tournaments, thereby contributing to the overall growth of the sport. With the increased purse of $11 million, the CME Group Tour Championship now shares the distinction of having the largest purse in the history of the LPGA Tour, aligning with the U.S. Women's Open.
The surge in financial support comes on the heels of a previous episode that raised concerns about the sponsorship relationship between CME Group and the LPGA. However, rather than withdrawing support, CME Group has opted to double down on its commitment, solidifying the partnership and reinforcing their position as key contributors to the growth and strength of the LPGA.
LPGA Commissioner Marcoux Samaan underscored the significance of CME Group's continued support, describing it as crucial to the ongoing evolution and success of the LPGA. The extension of the partnership positions CME Group as a driving force behind the unprecedented heights that women's golf and women's sports, in general, are reaching.
The $4 million winner's share represents a historic figure in women's golf, surpassing the earnings of all but two players in LPGA Tour history for an entire season. This substantial financial injection is set to elevate the championship to premier status, a testament to the belief that sometimes substantial financial backing is necessary to propel an event to the pinnacle of success.