The Phuket News Novosti Phuket Khao Phuket

Login | Create Account | Search


Honda LPGA Thailand returns with US$1.8mn purse in 2026

Honda LPGA Thailand returns with US$1.8mn purse in 2026

GOLF: The 19th edition of the Honda LPGA Thailand next year will feature 72 top LPGA Tour players, competing for an increased total prize fund of US$1.8 million (approximately B66mn), up from US$1.7mn.

Golf
By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 11 November 2025 09:21 AM


Fans attend the Honda LPGA Thailand 2025 in February. Photo: Supplied

Fans attend the Honda LPGA Thailand 2025 in February. Photo: Supplied

The event, which will take place from Feb 19-22, 2026, at Siam Country Club, Old Course in Pattaya, Chonburi, is sponsored by Honda, a leader in future mobility technologies, together with its three affiliated companies - Asian Honda Motor Co Ltd, Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co Ltd, and Thai Honda Manufacturing Co Ltd - in collaboration with tournament organiser IMG Services (Thailand) Co Ltd.

Toshio Kuwahara, president and CEO of Asian Honda Motor Co Ltd, told a press conference yesterday (Nov 10) that the event was expected to be a big success, reports the Bangkok Post.

“Women’s golf continues to grow in popularity and plays an increasingly important role in promoting gender equality in sports,” said Kuwahara.

“As the title sponsor of the Honda LPGA Thailand since 2006, Honda is proud to announce the 19th edition of the tournament in 2026, which will bring together 72 of the world’s top female golfers for an exciting competition in February.”

Winnie Heng, senior vice president and managing director of IMG Services (Thailand) Co Ltd, said: “Earlier this year, we recorded over 50,000 spectators on-site, reaffirming the strong and continuous growth of golf in Thailand and across Asia.

“There is no better time than now to embrace the sport of golf. Our goal is to make both the Honda LPGA Thailand and golf more accessible to everyone. With the collaboration of Honda, IMG, and our valued partners, we are confident in achieving this goal - delivering an improved golf experience that seamlessly blends sport with lifestyle.”

Before the official field announcement in January 2026, attention is focused on standout Thai and Japanese golfers.

Among Thai players are world No.1 Jeeno Thitikul, Patty Tavatanakit (2024 champion), Ariya Jutanugarn (2021 champion), and Chanettee Wannasaen, who advanced from a two-time National Qualifiers winner to a two-time LPGA champion.

Japanese golfers have also been in strong form, capturing seven wins early in the 2025 season. Highlights include Miyu Yamashita, the 2025 AIGh Women’s Open and Maybank Championship winner; Rio Takeda, Blue Bay LPGA winner; Mao Saiko, Chevron Championship major winner; and twins Akie and Chisato Iwai, winners of the Portland Classic, Riviera Maya Open, respectively. Nasa Hataoka also added to Japan’s success with her victory at the Japan Classic Championship last week.

Jeeno stated: “Whenever I have a break from competing, I like to return to Thailand but it’s even more special to get to play a tournament there. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with Thai fans and inspire young golfers. See you all in February!”

Angel Yin, the 2025 champion said: “Honda LPGA Thailand is one of the most memorable tournaments on tour - not just for the competition, but for the energy, the warm welcome from fans, and the vibrant Thai culture. Last year, I even celebrated my win by attending a cabaret show - it was so much fun! I can’t wait to return.”