The R&A has announced a significant increase in the official prize fund for the 2026 AIG Women's Open, with the world's top golfers competing for a share of the $10 million purse at Royal Lytham & St Annes in July. This marks the sixth consecutive year of prize money growth.
Mark Darbon, the R&A's chief executive, also confirmed that the 2028 edition will be held at Sunningdale's Old Course, following the 2027 event at Royal St George's. Darbon expressed enthusiasm for the 2028 venue, stating, 'Sunningdale will provide an outstanding venue in two years' time, marking the fifth occasion the championship has been held there, and the first since 2008.' The prize fund has been boosted by an additional $250,000, following the success of the 2025 AIG Women's Open, where Miyu Yamashita secured her first major title. This year's tournament will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of The AIG Women's Open, which was first won by Jenny Lee Smith in 1967 with a prize fund of $673.31. The 2026 AIG Women's Open will feature increased broadcast coverage, with 20% more live hours than in 2025, including early broadcast windows and main coverage from 1pm to 7pm daily from July 29 to August 2.
According to Darbon, 'Our broadcast coverage is fundamental to that ambition, and with a 20% increase in live hours compared to 2025, we are setting a new benchmark for women's golf.' The AIG Women's Open now offers more linear television broadcast hours in the UK and US than any other women's golf championship, providing fans with unprecedented access to the world's best players.