The lead-up to the 50th anniversary of the AIG Women’s Open is unfolding live on Sky Sports, featuring notable players like Nelly Korda and Charley Hull as they vie for a significant win at Royal Lytham & St Anne’s.
Historic Opportunities for Korda and Ryu
This year’s women’s major season has prominently showcased two standout players: Nelly Korda and Helan Ryu, both in contention to equal the record for the most major wins in a single calendar year. Korda clinched titles at the Chevron Championship and the U.S. Women’s Open, while Ryu triumphed at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and the Evian Championship. This marks a historic first, with two players achieving multiple major victories in a single season.
Only six golfers in history, across both men’s and women’s tours, have won three majors in one year. Korda and Ryu aspire to join this elite group by prevailing at the AIG Women’s Open. While Ben Hogan (1953) and Tiger Woods (2000) are the only men to have achieved this, Inbee Park accomplished the feat in 2013, aligning her with legends such as Babe Zaharias (1950), Mickey Wright (1961), and Pat Bradley (1986).
Currently, Korda and Ryu are the leading contenders for the Rolex Annika Major Award, designated for the LPGA Tour player with the finest major performances in a season. A decisive win may be required to determine who ultimately claims this prestigious title.
Korda’s Pursuit of Grand Slam Glory
One of the biggest shocks from the Evian Championship was Korda’s inability to qualify, despite being a pre-tournament favorite. She had already racked up four wins this season and was anticipated to be a serious contender for yet another major title. Her withdrawal ended a 34-tournament qualifying round and extended her quest for a career Grand Slam after winning her third major title at the U.S. Women’s Open earlier this year.
Having garnered acclaim for her performance, Korda is determined to rise to the occasion this week. If she emerges victorious, she will become the first woman in the modern era to join the Grand Slam club alongside Park.
Yamashita’s Bid for Back-to-Back Titles
It has been 15 years since Yani Tseng became the last player to win consecutive women’s majors, achieving victories at Royal Birkdale in 2010 and Carnoustie the following year. However, Miyu Yamashita now stands poised to break that streak. Having won 13 titles on the LPGA Japan Tour, Yamashita made a significant name for herself last year with her breakthrough at the Royal Porthcawl, where she won by holding off Charley Hull.
Yamashita’s recent form has been impressive, including a top-five finish at the Evian Championship and a strong showing in Scotland, indicating her readiness to defend her major title.
British Hopes for a Major Three-Peat
It has been three decades since Laura Davies claimed the last of her four major titles, yet half of the British women golfers have lifted major trophies since then. The current venue, Royal Lytham & St Anne’s, has seen British champions in recent years, with Alison Nicholas winning the US Women’s Open in 1997 and Karen Stupples winning the AIG Women’s Open in 2004.
With more than 50,000 fans expected at the event, local favorites, particularly Hull—who has been runner-up five times in major tournaments—are igniting hopes for another British victor this year.
Team Europe’s Solheim Cup Line-Up
As Team Europe approaches the crucial qualification stage for the Solheim Cup, this week serves as the last opportunity for players to secure their spots. Captain Anna Nordqvist has confirmed she will not serve as a playing captain. She plans to solidify eight automatic qualifiers this weekend and will announce her selections next week.
With multiple players performing strongly in recent competitions, including Leona Maguire’s impressive outing in Scotland, the landscape of Team Europe is set for an exciting adjustment ahead of the tournament.
AIG Women’s Open Coverage on Sky Sports
Sky Sports will exclusively broadcast the AIG Women’s Open across the UK and Ireland, enhancing its coverage to include a featured group option for the first time. Coverage begins at 9 AM on Thursday and Friday, with additional live action starting at 1 PM and noon on weekends for the final rounds. This week promises to showcase live golf action, culminating in the crowning of a new champion at this esteemed tournament.
