FRISCO – The anticipation surrounding the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship is palpable, especially as the world-class event is being held at the newly inaugurated Fields Ranch East, which just months ago was the venue for the Senior PGA Championship. In May 2023, Padraig Harrington made headlines with a remarkable opening round of 64, but this time, the conditions presented a different set of challenges.
On Thursday, the championship kicked off under tough circumstances, with temperatures peaking at 94 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite this, only 15 out of 156 competitors managed to break par, and many players endured grueling six-hour rounds. The field includes the top 100 earners from the LPGA, representing 26 different nations. Leading the charge are local favorites: Jeeno Thitikul from Carrollton, who finished at 4 under (68), and Minjee Lee from Irving at 3 under.
Players faced unique hurdles due to the unwavering heat, with Lee emphasizing the importance of staying focused amidst the conditions. “You can’t get ahead of yourself, especially in this kind of weather,” said the two-time major champion. Observations from prior tournaments indicate that conditions at the 2023 Senior PGA were significantly milder, making this year’s environment challenging for all competitors.
The East Course has also matured substantially since the last event, as noted by course designer Gil Hanse. In just over two years, areas that once displayed visible dirt are now transformed with lush growth, providing a tougher playing field. “I would think by ’27 we’ll be in a better place; probably ’29 to really see this place in full bloom,” Hanse remarked.
This championship marks a significant milestone as it is the first women’s major held in North Texas since the 1991 U.S. Women’s Open, and it sets the stage for the 2027 PGA Championship—an event that has not been held in North Texas since the 1963 tournament.
World No. 1 Nelly Korda has suggested that managing hydration and dealing with the Texas heat will be critical in the coming rounds. “It definitely takes a toll on you, the Texas heat,” Korda commented, reflecting the shared experience among the players.
Young star Thitikul, now living in Carrollton, displayed remarkable resilience by recovering from early struggles to post an impressive score. Her ability to make remarkable putts, adding up to 198 feet throughout her round, showcases her skill and adaptability, crucial attributes for any golfer facing unexpected challenges.
As the tournament progresses, the focus will be on how players continue to adapt to both the sweltering conditions and the intricacies of the course. For Thitikul, sleeping in her own bed has been a blessing, further contributing to her readiness to compete at a high level.
The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship not only highlights the growing prominence of women’s golf but also exemplifies the spirit of competition and resilience as players tackle the heat and the demanding layout of the East Course. With both local and international talents on display, including rising stars and seasoned champions, the tournament promises to be an exciting showcase of golf.