The FM Championship returns to TPC Boston this week, featuring an impressive lineup of LPGA stars competing for a $4.4 million purse.
Why it matters: The FM Championship is becoming a key event on the LPGA calendar, attracting top talent and enhancing the profile of women’s professional golf.
This year marks the championship's third iteration, with all 10 of the top players in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings participating.
The tournament features a purse of $4.4 million, making it one of the largest non-major events on the LPGA Tour.
Players receive substantial perks, including hotel accommodations, Uber gift cards, and a stipend for those who miss the cut.
Driving the news: The FM Championship runs Thursday through Sunday at TPC Boston, where 144 players will vie for a winner's check of $660,000.
Defending champion Miranda Wang, world No. 1 Nelly Korda, and local favorite Megan Khang are among the star-studded field.
13 of the 14 LPGA Tour winners from this season are also in attendance, highlighting the competitive nature of the event.
Golf Channel will provide extensive coverage throughout the tournament, enhancing visibility for the players and the event.
State of play: The tournament's featured groups include some of the most exciting pairings, promising thrilling matchups.
Among the highlighted groups are Jeeno Thitikul, Lottie Woad, and Charley Hull, with Thitikul fresh off a win at the Standard Portland Classic.
Haeran Ryu, who has won back-to-back majors this year, will compete alongside Brooke Henderson and Auston Kim.
Nelly Korda will be paired with Aki Iwai and Ruoning Yin, looking to bounce back from her lowest finish of the season.
The big picture: The FM Championship is not just a golf tournament; it’s a celebration of women’s sports and a showcase for the LPGA.
Dave Johnson, senior vice president of FM, emphasized the importance of player experience, stating, "FM elevates the game, right? They invest a lot into the LPGA, and we want to show up for them as they’ve shown up for us."
The event aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for players and fans alike, with family-friendly activities and amenities.
With 23 of the top 25-ranked players participating, the championship is set to deliver high-level competition.
What they're saying: Players and organizers express excitement about the event's growth and impact.
Megan Khang, an FM ambassador, noted, "The girls love coming to this event. It’s a tournament that you don’t want to miss."
Korda stated, "When you talk about the purse, too, it’s one of our larger purses, as well. That usually always draws a bigger field."
Johnson remarked, “We expect big things this year. The momentum is real, and it’s exciting to be a part of.”
By the numbers: The financial and competitive stakes of the FM Championship are impressive.
The purse of $4.4 million is up from $3.8 million in its inaugural year in 2024.
Players will compete for a winner's check of $660,000, underscoring the tournament's significance.
Free shuttles will run from Norton Middle School to the event, making it accessible for fans.
What's next: Fans can look forward to an exciting weekend filled with top-tier golf action.
Tickets for the FM Championship start at $59, with children 17 and under admitted free with a paying adult.
Golf enthusiasts can engage in various activities, including a closest-to-the-pin contest and free lessons from LPGA teaching pros.
The tournament is committed to at least two more years at TPC Boston, promising continued growth and engagement in women's golf.