The commencement of the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship today signifies the initiation of the third major championship in the professional women’s golf season. The Sahalee Country Club, situated 20 miles east of Seattle, is the esteemed host of this championship, which has been substantially elevating the status of women’s golf since KPMG assumed sponsorship a decade ago.
Prior to KPMG’s involvement, the tournament, previously identified as the LPGA Championship, was in dire need of a transformation. The strategic alignment with the Men’s PGA Championship proved to be a prudent decision, ensuring its endurance and relevance.
Seth Waugh, the CEO of PGA of America, attributed the success to Chief Championship Officer Kerry Haigh’s unwavering commitment and fervor for treating women players with the same level of reverence and significance as their male counterparts. This marked a groundbreaking era for women’s golf majors, enhancing the overall tournament experience for both players and enthusiasts.
The transition to esteemed venues traditionally associated with men’s golf, such as Congressional, Baltusrol, Aronimink, and Atlanta Athletic Club, represented a significant shift. Paul Knopp, the CEO of KPMG, emphasised the deliberate nature behind the selection of these iconic courses, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to equality with the men’s championships.
The investment in the tournament extended beyond venue selection. KPMG prioritised expanding network TV coverage, resulting in a threefold increase over the past decade. This has led to the amplification of prize pools, with the 2021 Championship featuring a purse of $4.5 million and this year’s edition offering an impressive $10.4 million.
Mollie Marcoux Samaan, the LPGA commissioner, acknowledged the profound impact of KPMG’s involvement in propelling equitable remuneration and augmenting the overall value for women athletes. The emphasis on pay equality has been relentless, aligning with the broader movement towards enhancing the economic landscape of the LPGA.
In addition to financial growth, KPMG remains dedicated to innovating the tournament experience. This year introduces KPMG ChampCast, a feature integrated into the championship’s app, providing advanced analytical insights and on-demand televised shots. The collaboration with T-Mobile and the PGA of America has unveiled 3D ball flight tracking, enriching the engagement and experience for players and enthusiasts alike.
The 2021 Championship is being held at the esteemed Sahalee Country Club, renowned for its demanding and tranquil setting, setting the stage for yet another captivating competition. Past editions have witnessed closely contested championships, underscoring the exceptional talent and skill of the women golfers.
The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship remains a transformative force in the realm of women’s golf, establishing new benchmarks and propelling progress towards equality and recognition for women athletes. With KPMG’s unwavering commitment and continued investment, the future of women’s golf majors appears bright and promising.