Next year, golfers on the LPGA Tour will have more to play for than ever before.
18 percent compared to this year to be precise, when the prize pool for the first time passes 100 million dollars (just over one billion kroner).
According to LPGA commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan, it's a good start.
- I think we are trying to grow as much as we can.
I think of it as a milestone, not a goal.
I think it simply symbolizes the next level of development for the tour.
But I don't think we feel we're done, she says.
The biggest competition in terms of the prize pool will be the US Women's Open at Pebble Beach in July, with $10 million.
- I would say that when we are given access to the stage, we prove that we are exciting and fun to watch, says world number one Nelly Korda.
Currently, the LIV tour offers a breathtaking $405 million for 14 events in 2023. No plans have been announced by the Saudi-funded tour to invite ladies.
And that's just as well, according to Marcoux Samaan.
- A divided golf environment is not good for anyone, she says.