The LPGA rolls into Stacy Lewis’ territory on Friday for the opening round of the Walmart Northwest Arkansas Championship at Pinnacle Country Club. As a result of a schedule depleted in recent years, this is only the 16th event of the year on the docket.
While the relatively sparse nature of the schedule can hurt momentum for the tour, it does create for an interesting reality: every event is a big one. That means there are few events where a player can afford not to play, including among the top players.
Seven of the top-10 players on the LPGA money list have competed in every event this season, meaning the tour’s stars are committed to showcasing the tour wherever it goes. Of the top-20 on the money list, no player has missed more than two events all year.
Participation is great for the circuit, but performance is what counts. For three players, they have not only competed in every tournament this year, but also cashed a paycheck. Paula Creamer, Brittany Lincicome and Karrie Webb are the lone three to do that.
Money leader Yani Tseng hasn’t done it. She missed her lone cut of the year at the Avnet LPGA Classic. Second place Cristie Kerr missed the weekend at the Kraft Nabisco Championship.
