Particle.news
Download on the App Store

LPGA Commissioner Apologizes for 54‑Hole Lake Nona Finish, Vows Reforms After Scrutiny

Craig Kessler cites injury risk from frozen turf as the reason for ending play.

Overview

  • The Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions was cut to 54 holes at Lake Nona, with Nelly Korda declared the winner after leading through three rounds.
  • Kessler acknowledged inconsistent and slow communication, told players he was "not prepared fully for Monday," and said the tour should have explored more options.
  • He outlined steps to prevent a repeat, including clearer decision principles, stronger weekly contingency planning, faster real‑time updates, and a more centralized decision process.
  • Players and observers questioned the call, with Lydia Ko lamenting the lack of a Monday finish and Annika Sorenstam noting the course was playable as celebrity amateurs and some pros were allowed on Sunday.
  • The LPGA has not completed an event on a Monday since 2020, a gap that complicated contingency planning as the tour now turns to its Asia swing beginning Feb. 19 in Thailand.