The Amundi Evian Championship is set to be a thrilling showdown as the world's top female golfers gather in France for the fourth women's major of the season. With Nelly Korda and Charley Hull among the favorites, the stage is set for an exciting tournament. Here's a deep dive into the key players, the format, and what to expect from this prestigious event.
The Contenders
Nelly Korda: The pre-tournament favorite, Korda is on a roll, having won four times on the LPGA Tour this season, including the Chevron Championship and the US Women's Open. She's aiming to complete a career Grand Slam, having already won three different majors. Her performance at the Evian Championship in 2022, where she finished in the top 10, makes her a strong contender once again.
Charley Hull: Hull, a rising star in English golf, is determined to make her mark. She finished tied-second at the US Women's Open and is seeking to become the first Englishwoman to win a major since 2018. With her recent form and the added motivation of the Solheim Cup qualification points on offer, Hull is a force to be reckoned with.
Grace Kim: Defending champion Grace Kim will be eager to defend her title after a dramatic playoff victory over Jeeno Thitikul last year. Kim's consistency and past success at this venue make her a dark horse in the competition.
Minjee Lee, Brooke Henderson, and Anna Nordqvist: These past winners of the event will be vying for another prestigious title. Lee and Henderson, in particular, have shown remarkable form this season, making them formidable opponents.
The Format and Prize Money
The Amundi Evian Championship, hosted at the picturesque Evian Resort Golf Club in France, is a par-71 course. The tournament offers a substantial prize purse of $9.1 million, with the winner taking home a substantial cheque of $1.365 million. This year's purse represents a significant increase from the previous year, showcasing the event's growing importance in the women's golf calendar.
The Solheim Cup Connection
This week's event is not just about major glory; it's also a crucial part of the qualification process for the Solheim Cup. With the tournament being the penultimate major before the Solheim Cup in September, players are eager to secure their spots on the European team. The intense competition and the high stakes make this a must-watch for golf enthusiasts.
The History of the Evian Championship
The Evian Championship has a rich history, dating back to 1994. It was elevated to major status in 2013, becoming the first tournament in continental Europe to earn this distinction. The course, with its stunning views of Lake Geneva, has witnessed some memorable moments in women's golf.
The Challenge for Korda
Nelly Korda's pursuit of a career Grand Slam is a fascinating narrative. With two chances to complete the slam this month, she faces a challenging task. The Evian Championship and the AIG Women's Open are her remaining hurdles. Her previous best finish at the Evian Championship and the fact that she's yet to win the AIG Women's Open make this a compelling story to follow.
The Contenders' Form
World No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul is on a winning streak, having secured two LPGA Tour victories this season. However, she's yet to taste major success. Hull, on the other hand, is in exceptional form, having finished tied-second at the US Women's Open. The young English golfer is determined to break through and win her first major.
Lottie Woad, who claimed her second LPGA Tour title earlier this year, will be looking to build on her performance from last year's event, where she finished in the top 10 as an amateur. The presence of major winners like Hyo Joo Kim, Miyu Yamashita, and Hae Ran Ryu adds further excitement to the tournament.
The Sky Sports Coverage
Sky Sports is your go-to destination for all the action. With six hours of live coverage from all four rounds, you won't miss a moment. The tournament begins at 11 am on Thursday and Friday on Sky Sports+, and the action continues on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am on Sky Sports Golf. Don't miss out on the chance to witness these golfing legends in action!
As the Amundi Evian Championship unfolds, golf enthusiasts can expect a thrilling display of skill, determination, and the pursuit of major glory. With a star-studded field and a rich history, this event promises to be a highlight of the women's golf calendar.
