Will The LPGA Survive?

The economic downturn has created some problems with the LPGA. But how much trouble is the LPGA in?

They've lost 2 sponsors this year and I believe three more will follow. Also contracts with 11 other sponsors will expire at the end of the year. Only time will tell if they renew. Why the powers that be didn't stagger those sponsors' contracts over a period of years is beyond me.

Corning pulled the plug after 31 years of sponsoring the Corning Classic due to a loss of profits. If an institution like Corning pulls the plug, how many other sponsors will follow?

The LPGA is also having leadership problems. Seven of their top executives have resigned. Players are concerned that the leaders are going in the wrong direction.

A bright note is the contract with J Golf, the tour's new South Korean TV partner. I believe they are going to sponsor an LPGA event in Los Angeles.

Another bright spot is the long term deal with the Golf channel. Whether this will help the LPGA remains to be seen.

How many people will tune into a tournament if the leaderboard is loaded with Asian players.  Americans have a hard time putting the names with the faces.

Can you put a face with the following names: Yani Tseng, Jiyai Shin, In-Kyung Kim, Ji Young Oh. You probably can't. They are in the top 10 in money leaders on the tour.

I'm sure Paula Creamer, Morgan Pressel, and Natalie Gulbis are familiar faces.

I have no doubt that the LPGA will survive but I think you will see fewer tournaments in the USA and more in overseas countries. I also think you'll see less in prize money.

Back to Home Page