The Aramco Championship becomes the first Saudi-funded tournament officially sanctioned by the LPGA Tour.
A familiar venue with a new twist: The LPGA Tour returns to Shadow Creek in 2026, but this time with a stroke play format and a new title sponsor. Scheduled for late March at the Shadow Creek Golf Club in Las Vegas, the Aramco Championship marks the first LPGA-sanctioned event of the Saudi-backed PIF Global Series. Co-hosted with the Ladies European Tour (LET), the tournament boasts a $4 million purse, making it one of the most lucrative non-major events on the LPGA calendar.
New LPGA Commissioner Makes Bold Debut
Craig Kessler, who took over as LPGA Commissioner in July 2025, introduces the Aramco Championship as one of his first major initiatives. Calling it a “perfect package,” Kessler emphasized the event’s alignment with the LPGA’s competitive and financial goals. Even before his official start, Kessler attended PIF Global Series events in London and Riyadh, signaling long-term planning. Now, the LPGA takes a significant step by hosting a Saudi-funded event on U.S. soil. Kessler describes it as part of the tour’s global expansion, citing the venue, prize money, and format as key strengths.
Controversy Surrounds Saudi Partnership
The LPGA’s collaboration with Saudi Arabia has sparked debate within the golf community. While the partnership offers increased prize money, global exposure, and new venues for female athletes, it also introduces a political dimension that many feel is underdiscussed. Kessler claims player feedback has been largely positive, though it remains unclear how much consensus truly exists behind closed doors or whether alternatives were considered.
Human rights organizations have long criticized partnerships with Saudi state-controlled entities. The country’s record on women’s rights, legal equality, and suppression of activists stands in stark contrast to the LPGA’s public mission of empowering women globally. Critics, including former player Lisa Cornwell, question the alignment of values.
To anyone who still wonders if sportswashing works, here’s your answer: The LPGA is now officially in business with Saudi Arabia.
My support for this tour has always been about more than golf — it’s about opening doors for women, breaking ceilings, and giving young girls role… https://t.co/nC5f8TZP6U
— Lisa Cornwell (@LisaMCornwell) November 5, 2025
Golf Saudi has long been embedded in