Lydia Ko has a very special mission in Hawaii: At the Lotte Championship on O‘ahu, the golf icon is chasing another significant career milestone that could crown her already illustrious LPGA record. For the New Zealander, who already triumphed here in 2021, it's more than just another start – it's a chance to make history.
The 14th Lotte Championship is no ordinary interlude: With a prize purse of $3 million and a hefty 500 Race to the CME Globe points, there's a lot at stake. Even persistent rain and wet greens, which already disrupted the Pro-Am, couldn't dampen the mood at Hoakalei Country Club in Ewa Beach.
Veterans and Rising Stars
Ko herself is no stranger to the greens of Hoakalei, having secured a victory here in 2021. But the competition is fierce: With A Lim Kim, Grace Kim, Hyo Joo Kim, and defending champion Youmin Hwang, numerous top players are on the tee, eager to contend. The field is "loaded" with star power.
The Battle for the Trophy is Underway
The fight for the title has been in full swing since Thursday morning at 6:30 AM local time (6:30 PM CET) and continues until Sunday. For many players, this event is an important stop before heading into the crucial Asian Swing of the LPGA Tour. Lydia Ko has her sights firmly set on the big prize – the tension is palpable.
