Lotte Championship: Top Stars Hunt Youmin Hwang

The Lotte Championship in Hawaii remains the ultimate stage for true golf dramas, spectacular breakthroughs, and performances that forge superstars. This year, the Hoakalei Country Club in Hawaii once again promises one thrilling round after another, as defending champion Youmin Hwang is set to defend her title from last year. She won in 2025 as a sponsor invitee, proving that history is written here.

Since its debut in 2012, the Lotte Championship has produced an impressive list of winners. From former world No. 1s to Major champions and rising talents – the Hawaiian greens always deliver. Ai Miyazato led the way in 2012, followed by Michelle Wie West in 2014 and Sei Young Kim in 2015. Brooke Henderson even entered the annals twice, as the only one to win the tournament multiple times. Lydia Ko's 2021 victory with an incredible score of 28-under 260 still stands as the absolute benchmark.

Drama, Baby, Drama!

The tournament's recent history proves that no one is safe here. In 2023, Grace Kim claimed victory in a playoff, and in 2024, A Lim Kim triumphed. Then came Youmin Hwang in 2025: She ignited a late fireworks display, birdying five of her last six holes and snatching the title by just one stroke. That was pure drama on the green and exactly what makes the Lotte Championship so incomparable.

New Format, Old Star Power

An important change this year: For the first time in its 14-year history, the Lotte Championship will run from Thursday to Sunday – a more conventional schedule than the previous Wednesday-to-Saturday format. The event clearly positions itself in 2026 as a major stop for top LPGA Tour players. Jeeno Thitikul leads the strong field, but names like Atthaya Thitikul and Miyu Yamashita are also competing and keenly eyeing the title.

The Lotte Championship is much more than just a tournament in Hawaii. It is a launchpad for careers and has often shown that it delivers unforgettable moments that catapult players to even greater successes. Just recall Wie West, who, after her 2014 victory, won the U.S. Women’s Open just two months later. Here, golf isn't just played; legends are forged.