17 players to watch as the LPGA opens its 2025 season
The LPGA is ready to start the year-long celebration of its 75th season, and it begins Thursday with the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando.
What will World No. 1 Nelly Korda do for an encore after winning seven times in 2024? How can Lydia Ko top last season after winning the AIG Women’s Open—one of three victories—and the gold medal at the Paris Olympics? That secured her spot in the LPGA Hall of Fame, too. She’ll surely find a way.
No doubt there will be milestones and breakthroughs, successes and struggles, new names making a splash and veterans doing veteran things. We can’t wait to witness it all, especially from the players who make this list as ones we know we’re watching in 2025.
Here’s a list of 17 players to watch as the LPGA Tour kicks off its 2025 season:
Nelly Korda – One of the biggest names in women’s golf, Korda is always a contender and will be looking for more major victories in 2025.
Lydia Ko – A former No. 1 who has regained her form, Ko’s consistency and all-around game make her a force to watch.
Jin Young Ko – With multiple majors and a solid game, Ko remains one of the best players on tour.
Lexi Thompson – A powerful player with a knack for the big moments, Thompson is always capable of winning, especially on big stages.
Minjee Lee – A major champion with a smooth swing, Lee’s ability to compete in various conditions keeps her on the radar.
Brooke Henderson – The Canadian has been one of the most consistent players on tour and will continue to be a title contender.
Atthaya Thitikul – A young, rising star from Thailand, Thitikul’s all-around game has made her a player to keep an eye on in 2025.
Danielle Kang – Known for her powerful game and mental toughness, Kang could break through for another big win in the coming year.
Jennifer Kupcho – After her breakthrough win, Kupcho has proven she can compete with the best and will be a player to watch in 2025.
Charley Hull – An aggressive player from England, Hull has shown she can win anywhere and might be ready for a breakout season.
Ai Suzuki – A talented player from Japan, Suzuki has the skill set to contend regularly on the LPGA Tour.
Mirim Lee – A consistent and steady performer, Lee is capable of contending in any tournament and could secure another win in 2025.
Sophia Popov – The German golfer’s game has been on the rise, and she’s shown she can compete at the highest level.
Nasa Hataoka – With her solid game, Hataoka is always a threat on tour and will be looking to make a bigger impact in 2025.
Ally Ewing – Known for her strong putting and consistency, Ewing is primed for a breakthrough year.
Mina Harigae – Harigae’s steady improvement and strong ball-striking make her an exciting player to watch in 2025.
Hyo Joo Kim – With multiple victories on tour, Kim’s technical game and mental toughness put her in the spotlight as a top contender.
These players represent a mix of seasoned champions and rising stars, making the 2025 season one to look forward to!