The LPGA 2026 Season: A Dynamic Landscape Ahead
As we gear up for the 2026 LPGA season, the competitive field promises excitement and unpredictability. The previous season was nothing short of remarkable, marked by surprises and a plethora of new champions.
A Surprising 2025 Season
In an unexpected twist, star player Nelly Korda went the entire 2025 season without securing a victory—a rarity considering her stature as one of the tour’s elite. Fans anticipating her win amid an impressive lineup of 29 different victors were left astonished. This statistic underscores the unpredictability that characterized the last campaign.
Spotlight on Jeeno Thitikul: Dominance and Potential
Among the standout performers was Jeeno Thitikul, who notably secured more than one victory, finishing the season with three wins. Despite her success, the search for her first major title continues. Golf analyst Brandel Chamblee, speaking on Golf Channel, expressed confidence that Thitikul may soon break through in one of the season’s five premier events.
Chamblee remarked, “Jeeno Thitikul demonstrates a level of talent should remind us of the magnetism of Lorena Ochoa.” His endorsement wasn’t without merit, as Thitikul ended the year with a strong lead in the world rankings, outpacing Korda by five points. Chamblee praised her powerful performances, including a nail-biting finish at the Evian Championship, where she narrowly missed securing her first major.
Hae Ran Ryu: A Player to Watch in 2026
Bringing additional attention to the upcoming season, Chamblee singled out Hae Ran Ryu, emphasizing her prowess as a premier ball-striker. Ryu has consistently demonstrated her capabilities with a victory in each of the last three seasons. According to Chamblee, “When you watch her swing, it’s breathtaking. She is unrivaled as the best ball-striker on the LPGA tour.”
Recent Achievements and Room for Improvement
Ryu captured her latest title at the Black Desert Championship and has a solid record of success. However, her 2025 performance in majors fell short of expectations. She began with a commendable T6 finish at the Chevron Championship but struggled in subsequent events, with her only other top-10 finish being a tie for 23rd at the Women’s British Open.
Statistically, Ryu shone in ball-striking—leading the tour in strokes gained in approach shots and ranking third off the tee. Unfortunately, putting has been her Achilles heel, placing her outside the top 150 players. Addressing these challenges on the greens will be essential for her ascendance this season.
Conclusion: Excitement Awaits in 2026
The upcoming LPGA season is poised to showcase an exhilarating array of talent, with players like Jeeno Thitikul and Hae Ran Ryu stepping into the spotlight. Fans and analysts alike can expect a thrilling campaign with an open field and potential breakout performances. As we look ahead, the question remains: who will emerge as the dominant force in the 2026 season?
