The Chevron Championship stands out as the premier women’s major to kick off the 2026 season, and fans will want to know why it matters, how players earn a spot, where the action will unfold, and which competitors are most likely to shine. This guide covers all of those points and more, giving you a thorough preview before the tournament launches on Sky Sports. A Brief History and Its Place Among the Majors Although The Chevron Championship is the third-oldest of the five women’s majors—trailing only the U.S.
Women’s Open and the Women’s PGA Championship—it did not become a major until 1983. The 2026 edition marks the 56th running of the event, a testament to its longevity and growing prestige. The trophy awarded to the winner is the Dinah Shore Trophy, named for the beloved singer‑actress who loved golf and helped launch the tournament in 1972.
From Humble Beginnings to a Premier Showcase Originally a 54‑hole competition, the tournament has expanded over the decades into a four‑day, 72‑hole showcase that now features one of the largest prize pools in women’s golf. The event first took place at Mission Hills Country Club in California, then moved to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at The Club at Carlton Woods in Texas in 2023. For 2026 the championship shifts once more, this time to Memorial Park Golf Course in Houston, a par‑72 layout that regularly hosts the PGA Tour’s Houston Open. Traditions That Set It Apart One of the most iconic moments in the tournament’s history occurred in 1988 when three‑time champion Amy Alcott leapt into the lake beside the 18th green at Mission Hills to celebrate her win.
That splash sparked a tradition: every champion now jumps into a water feature adjacent to the 18th green. At Memorial Park, organizers have taken the custom seriously, installing a temporary pool near the 18th‑hole green so the 2026 winner can make a splash of their own. How Players Qualify Entry to The Chevron Championship is far more exclusive than some other majors. While the AIG Women’s Open allows any amateur with a handicap of 0.4 or lower to compete, the Chevron field is reserved for the elite.
Automatic invitations go to: * All past champions and former major winners * Winners of LPGA Tour events * The top ten finishers from the previous year’s Chevron Championship * The top two players from the Ladies European Tour, the LPGA of Japan, and the LPGA of Korea who are not already exempt * Eight of the world’s best amateurs, selected through a rigorous qualification process These criteria ensure that the roster is packed with world‑class talent, making for a highly competitive tournament. Key Contenders to Watch Defending champion Mao Saigo will be looking to repeat her 2025 triumph, where she secured the title in a dramatic playoff. Among the British hopefuls, Charley Hull is eager to claim her first major after missing the cut last year, while 22‑year‑old Lottie Woad has surged up the rankings and will be keen to make a statement in Houston.
Australian Hannah Green arrives in top form, having won four of her last five starts in 2026—including the HSBC Women’s World Championship, the Women’s Australian Open, the Australian WPGA Championship, and the JM Eagle LA Championship. South Korea’s Hyo Joo Kim is another hot prospect after back‑to‑back victories at the Fortinet Founders Cup and the Ford Championship in March. Nelly Korda, a former Chevron champion, has also enjoyed a strong start to the season, winning the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions and finishing runner‑up in her three other starts.
Her candid comments about handling pressure and learning from setbacks illustrate the mental resilience needed to succeed at this level. Past champions add depth to the field. Annika Sörenstam, a three‑time winner, remains a legend, while Lexi Thompson, the 2014 champion, will be looking to bounce back after a recent rules controversy that cost her a two‑stroke penalty at the 12th green. European interest is high, with Solheim Cup captain Anna Nordqvist eyeing a fourth major while also scouting European players for September’s Solheim Cup.
Strong finishes here can boost a player’s chances of earning a captain’s pick or securing automatic qualification. Prize Money and Stakes The purse for the 2026 Chevron Championship has been increased by $100,000, bringing the total to $8 million (approximately £5.91 million).
This is a dramatic rise from the $3.1 million purse offered in 2021, underscoring the event’s growing financial clout and its importance on the LPGA Tour schedule. Broadcast and Viewing Details Sky Sports will broadcast every round of the championship live. Early coverage of the first and second rounds begins at 4 pm on Thursday and Friday on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Golf. The weekend rounds start at 7 pm on Saturday and Sunday, also on Sky Sports Golf, with additional feeds and highlights available via Sky Sports+.
For the best viewing experience, a Chrome browser is recommended for the video player. Why This Major Matters Beyond the trophy and the purse, the Chevron Championship offers players a chance to set the tone for the rest of the season. A strong performance can secure valuable world‑ranking points, improve a player’s standing for Solheim Cup selection, and provide momentum heading into the summer swing. For fans, the combination of historic tradition, high‑stakes competition, and the unique pool‑jump celebration makes it a must‑watch event.
In summary, the 2026 Chevron Championship promises a blend of historic charm, elite competition, and a generous prize fund. Whether you are a casual viewer or a die‑hard golf enthusiast, the tournament offers plenty of storylines to follow. Tune in to Sky Sports from 23‑26 April to see who will add their name to the Dinah Shore Trophy and make a splash—both figuratively and literally—into women’s golf history.