The Amundi Evian Championship is set to be a thrilling showdown as the women's major season reaches its climax. With Nelly Korda and Charley Hull leading the charge, this week's event promises to be a showcase of talent and determination. But what makes this tournament particularly intriguing is the potential for Korda to complete a career Grand Slam, a feat that would cement her legacy in the sport.
The Korda Factor
Nelly Korda's dominance on the LPGA Tour this season is undeniable. Her four victories, including the Chevron Championship and the US Women's Open, have solidified her status as the pre-tournament favorite. The question on everyone's mind is whether she can go one step further and secure a career Grand Slam. With two chances this month, Korda's performance at the Evian Championship will be pivotal. Her previous best finish at this event was an 8th place tie in 2022, and a top-8 finish this year would be a significant step towards her goal.
The English Contenders
Charley Hull, a rising star in English golf, is determined to make her mark. After a tied-second finish at the US Women's Open, Hull is eager to bounce back from a missed cut at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship. She aims to become the first Englishwoman to win a major since 2018, a feat that would be a significant achievement for the sport in her home country.
The Defending Champion
Grace Kim, the defending champion, will be looking to defend her title after a dramatic playoff victory over Jeeno Thitikul last year. Kim's experience at this event could be a crucial advantage, and her presence adds to the excitement of the tournament.
The Contenders' Form
Thitikul, the world No. 2, is on a roll with two LPGA Tour wins this season. However, she is yet to secure a major victory, which makes this event a crucial test for her. Meanwhile, Lottie Woad, who claimed her second LPGA Tour title earlier this year, is also in the hunt. Her tied-third finish at last year's event, while still an amateur, showcases her potential.
A Historic Tournament
The Evian Championship has a rich history, having been elevated to major status in 2013. It was the first women's major in continental Europe, and its inaugural winner, Suzann Pettersen, set the stage for future champions. The tournament's co-sanctioning by the LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour adds to its prestige.
Prize Money and Prize
The 2026 edition of the tournament boasts a substantial prize purse of $9.1 million, with the winner taking home $1.365 million. This significant increase from the previous year highlights the growing importance and popularity of the event.
The Venue
The tournament takes place at the Evian Resort Golf Club in Evian-les-Bains, France, a par-71 course renowned for its stunning views of Lake Geneva. The challenging layout and picturesque surroundings make it a golfer's dream, adding to the allure of the championship.
Other Golfing Action
While the Evian Championship takes center stage, golf enthusiasts can also tune in to the Genesis Scottish Open and the ISCO Championship, both live on Sky Sports. The top three players on the final leaderboard, who are not already qualified, will secure their spot in The Open at Royal Birkdale the following week.
As the Amundi Evian Championship unfolds, all eyes will be on Korda, Hull, and the other contenders as they battle for major glory. With a career Grand Slam on the line for Korda and a chance for Hull to etch her name in history, this week's event promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
