The R&A has announced that the official prize purse for the 2026 AIG Women's Open will rise once again, marking the sixth year in a row that the tournament’s financial rewards have been increased. This year’s champions will compete at the historic Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club in July, vying for a share of a $10 million (approximately £7.43 million) total prize fund. Mark Darbon, the chief executive of the R&A, also used the occasion to confirm the venue for the 2028 edition of the championship.
He revealed that the Old Course at Sunningdale will host the event, while the 2027 tournament is slated for Royal St George's. "We know Sunningdale will provide an outstanding venue in two years' time," Darbon said.
"It will be the fifth time the championship has been held there and the first since 2008." In addition to the headline‑grabbing $10 million prize pool, the R&A has added an extra $250,000 (about £185,651) to this year’s purse. The boost follows the success of the 2025 AIG Women's Open, where Japan’s Miyu Yamashita clinched her first major title with a two‑stroke win over England’s Charley Hull and fellow Japanese Minami Katsu.
Yamashita’s victory underscored the growing international depth of women’s golf and helped justify the R&A’s decision to keep expanding the financial incentives for players. The 2026 tournament also carries special historical significance because it marks the 50th anniversary of the AIG Women’s Open.
The inaugural event was held in 1967, with English golfer Jenny Lee Smith becoming the first champion. At that time the prize fund was a modest $673.31 (roughly £500).
Over the past five decades the tournament has evolved from a modest national competition into one of the premier majors in women’s golf, reflecting both the sport’s increasing popularity and the R&A’s commitment to gender equity in the game. Broadcast coverage will expand dramatically in 2026, offering fans a 20 percent increase in live television hours compared with the 2025 edition. Sky Sports will provide comprehensive coverage throughout the week, with early‑round windows showcasing the opening rounds and morning marquee groups between 9 am and 1 pm.
Full main‑day coverage will run from 1 pm to 7 pm each day, from July 29 through August 2, ensuring that viewers can follow the action from the first tee to the final putt. "Our broadcast coverage is fundamental to that ambition and with a 20 percent increase in live hours compared to 2025, we are setting a new benchmark for women's golf," Darbon explained. "The AIG Women's Open now delivers more linear television broadcast hours in the UK and US than any other women's golf championship, giving fans unprecedented access to the very best players in the world. This is another important step forward as we continue to invest in the Championship and grow its global audience." The expanded coverage is expected to attract a broader audience, both domestically and internationally.
By increasing the number of live hours, the R&A aims to give sponsors, broadcasters, and fans more opportunities to engage with the sport, thereby driving further investment and participation at the grassroots level. The organization also hopes that the heightened visibility will inspire the next generation of female golfers, particularly in regions where women’s golf is still developing. Beyond the main tournament, the R&A’s schedule includes a host of related events and news items that will keep fans engaged throughout the summer.
For example, the ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open will see Japanese star Jenny Shin aiming for her first LPGA title in more than a decade, while the PGA Tour will feature Lucas Glover addressing AimPoint speculation after an unusual incident where he removed his shoes mid‑round. In the LIV Golf circuit, Lucas Herbert will be looking to build on his record‑breaking 30‑under‑par performance at the UK event, further highlighting the depth of talent across men’s and women’s professional golf. The 2026 AIG Women’s Open will also be a showcase for emerging talent. Young players such as Lottie Woad and Nelly Korda are expected to be in contention, adding fresh storylines to the competition.
The tournament’s format, which includes four rounds of stroke play, will test both consistency and resilience, especially given the challenging links conditions at Royal Lytham & St Annes, known for its deep bunkers, undulating fairways, and unpredictable coastal winds. Fans who wish to follow the action can watch all four rounds live on Sky Sports throughout July.
The network offers both traditional subscription packages and a streaming option with no long‑term contract, making it easier for viewers worldwide to tune in. For those without a Sky Sports subscription, the tournament will also be streamed via the Sky Sports app and partner platforms, ensuring that the expanded coverage reaches as many golf enthusiasts as possible.
In summary, the 2026 AIG Women’s Open represents a milestone for women’s golf: a $10 million prize fund, a historic venue, a half‑century celebration, and a significant boost in broadcast exposure. These developments reflect the R&A’s strategic vision to elevate the profile of the women’s game, provide greater financial rewards for its athletes, and deliver a world‑class viewing experience for fans across the globe. The combination of a larger purse, expanded media coverage, and the historic backdrop of Royal Lytham & St Annes promises an unforgettable edition of the championship and sets the stage for continued growth in the years to come.