The Amundi Evian Championship is set to be a thrilling spectacle 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 leading the charge, this year's event promises to be a nail-biter from start to finish.
Nelly Korda's Quest for the Career Grand Slam
Nelly Korda, the pre-tournament favorite, is on the cusp of achieving a career-defining feat. With her recent US Women's Open victory, she now has two opportunities to complete the career Grand Slam this month. Korda's dominance on the LPGA Tour this season, with four wins, including The Chevron Championship, further cements her status as a force to be reckoned with. However, the pressure of completing the Grand Slam may also be a double-edged sword, as she seeks to avoid the pitfalls of past performances.
The English Contenders
Charley Hull, a rising star in the English golf scene, is determined to make her mark. With 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. Her performance this year has been nothing short of impressive, and she is a strong contender to challenge Korda for the top spot.
The Defending Champion
Grace Kim, the defending champion, will be looking to defend her title after a dramatic play-off victory over Jeeno Thitikul last year. Kim's experience and familiarity with the course could give her an edge, but the pressure of defending a major title is no small feat.
The Contenders' Form
Lottie Woad, another English golfer, has been on a roll, claiming her second LPGA Tour title at the Kroger Queen City Championship. However, her recent playoff loss to Miyu Yamashita at the Meijer LPGA Classic serves as a reminder that the competition is fierce. Meanwhile, Hyo Joo Kim, a past winner of this event, and major winners Miyu Yamashita and Hae Ran Ryu will be eager to add to their accolades.
The History of the Evian Championship
The Evian Championship, first held in 1994, has a rich history. It was elevated to major status in 2013, becoming the first tournament in continental Europe to earn this distinction. The tournament has witnessed the rise of legendary golfers like Suzann Pettersen, Annika Sörenstam, and Dame Laura Davies, who have left their mark on the sport.
The Prize Money
This year's tournament boasts a substantial prize purse of $9.1 million, with the winner taking home a staggering $1.365 million. The increase in prize money from the 2025 event reflects the growing importance and popularity of women's golf.
The Course and Location
The tournament takes place at the picturesque Evian Resort Golf Club in Evian-les-Bains, France, a par-71 course renowned for its stunning views of Lake Geneva. The course's challenging layout and the players' skill will undoubtedly make for an exciting spectacle.
The Sky Sports Coverage
Sky Sports will provide extensive coverage of the Evian Championship, with six hours of live action each day. Golf enthusiasts can tune in to Sky Sports+ for the first two rounds and then switch to Sky Sports Golf for the final two rounds, ensuring they don't miss a moment of the action.
In conclusion, the Amundi Evian Championship is a must-watch event for golf fans worldwide. With a star-studded field, a rich history, and the potential for a career-defining achievement, this major promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. As the competition unfolds, spectators will be treated to a display of skill, determination, and the sheer talent of these exceptional women golfers.
