Amundi Evian Championship Raises the Bar for Women's Golf Majors
The Amundi Evian Championship, one of the most prestigious events in women's golf, has announced a historic increase in its prize money for the 2024 edition. This move comes as part of a broader trend of record-breaking purses across the women's game, solidifying the tournament's position as a true major championship.
Unlocking the Potential of Women's Golf
A Landmark Increase in Prize Money
The Amundi Evian Championship has made a bold statement by increasing its total prize purse to a staggering million for the 2024 edition. This represents a significant jump from the .5 million on offer in 2023, with the winner's share now reaching a remarkable .2 million. This move not only reflects the growing recognition and support for women's golf but also serves as a powerful catalyst for the continued growth and professionalization of the sport.
Closing the Gap with the Men's Game
The Amundi Evian Championship's decision to substantially increase its prize money aligns with a broader trend in the women's game. In recent years, other major championships, such as the Chevron Championship, the US Women's Open, and the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, have also opted to add significant amounts to their respective event's overall purses. This collective effort to elevate the financial rewards for the world's top female golfers is a crucial step in bridging the gap between the men's and women's professional tours.
A Milestone for the Evian Championship
The Amundi Evian Championship's journey to becoming a true major event has been a remarkable one. Less than five years ago, the overall prize purse was nearly half of what it is today, with the 2019 winner, Jin-young Ko, taking home 5,000. Now, in just the third time in the championship's history, the triumphant golfer will take home a seven-figure sum, a testament to the tournament's growth and the increasing recognition of women's golf.
A Celebration of the Tournament's Legacy
Franck Riboud, the chairman of the Amundi Evian Championship, has expressed his pride in the tournament's evolution, stating that this significant increase in prize money is a "beautiful symbol for the tournament's 30th anniversary." This milestone serves as a testament to the tournament's commitment to developing women's sport and providing ever-greater resources to the champions who represent it.
The Road Ahead for the Amundi Evian Championship
With the support of the LPGA and Ladies European Tour, the involvement of loyal sponsors, and the exposure provided by the international media, the Amundi Evian Championship has firmly established itself as one of the most prestigious events in women's golf. As the tournament continues to grow and evolve, the increased prize money will undoubtedly attract the world's top players, further elevating the level of competition and the overall profile of the event.
