2026 Kroger Queen City Championship: World’s Top Players Set for LPGA’s Cincinnati Showcase
The 2026 Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G will crown its fifth edition as the LPGA Tour’s marquee Cincinnati event, featuring a field that includes the world’s top four players, two defending champions, and a rising star from Xavier University. Scheduled for May 14-17 at Maketewah Country Club, this year’s tournament promises to be the most competitive in its history.
Elite Field Headlines Cincinnati’s Golf Season
The tournament organizers announced today that world No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul, No. 2 Nelly Korda, defending champion Charley Hull (world No. 4), and 2024 champion Lydia Ko (world No. 7) will headline the field. Their participation underscores the event’s growing prestige as a must-win tournament on the LPGA Tour.
Top Contenders to Watch
- Jeeno Thitikul (Thailand) – The reigning world No. 1 enters as the tournament favorite, having dominated the LPGA Tour’s early season with three wins in 2026.
- Nelly Korda (USA) – The 2023 U.S. Women’s Open champion and Olympic gold medalist brings aggressive course management and clutch putting to Maketewah.
- Charley Hull (England) – The 2025 champion (and 2024 runner-up) is the defending titleholder, seeking back-to-back victories in Cincinnati.
- Lydia Ko (New Zealand) – The 2024 champion and 2017 U.S. Women’s Open winner returns after a brief hiatus, adding depth to the field.
Rookie Sensation and Local Connections
The field also includes Emma McMyler, a Xavier University alumna who earned her 2026 LPGA Tour card by birdieing five of her final six holes at the LPGA Tour Qualifying Series in December. McMyler competed in the inaugural 2022 Kroger Queen City Championship as a sponsor-invited amateur, making her return a story to follow.
Additional sponsor invitations feature Maria Fassi (LPGA Tour professional and P&G ambassador), Alexandra Swayne (Ladies European Tour pro and Cincinnati resident), and Madison Reemsnyder (Xavier University senior). Their inclusion highlights the tournament’s commitment to developing future stars and engaging the local community.
Why This Tournament Matters
The Kroger Queen City Championship has quickly become a cornerstone of the LPGA Tour’s schedule, offering a high-stakes test of golf in the heart of the Midwest. With its upgraded hospitality packages—including the Champions Club with premium views of the course—the event blends elite competition with fan-friendly experiences.
Key Tournament Facts
- Dates: May 14–17, 2026
- Location: Maketewah Country Club, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Prize Money: $2.25 million (largest purse in LPGA Tour history for a Cincinnati event)
- Field Size: 144 players (including top 70 from LPGA rankings and sponsor invites)
- Ticket Sales: On sale now at QueenCityLPGA.com
Storylines to Follow
Thitikul vs. Korda: The World No. 1 Clash
Thitikul’s dominance in 2026 has set up a potential showdown with Korda, who has historically thrived in major championships. Their head-to-head matchups will be a focal point of the tournament.
Hull’s Title Defense
Charley Hull became the first British player to win in Cincinnati since 2018. Can she repeat her success on a course that rewards precision and patience?
McMyler’s Homecoming
As a Xavier University alumna, McMyler’s performance will be closely watched by local fans. Her ability to transition from amateur to professional success could inspire the next generation of golfers.
Ko’s Return to Relevance
Lydia Ko’s 2024 victory was her first major win in five years. Her return to the tour and this tournament will be a key indicator of her resurgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the 2026 Kroger Queen City Championship?
May 14–17, 2026, at Maketewah Country Club in Cincinnati, Ohio.
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available for purchase at QueenCityLPGA.com. Upgraded hospitality packages, including the Champions Club, are also on sale.
Who are the top contenders?
The favorites include Jeeno Thitikul (world No. 1), Nelly Korda (No. 2), Charley Hull (defending champion), and Lydia Ko (2024 champion). Rookie Emma McMyler and local players like Alexandra Swayne add depth to the field.
Is this the biggest field in tournament history?
Yes. With 144 players—including the top 70 from the LPGA rankings and sponsor invitations—this is the largest field in the tournament’s five-year history.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Cincinnati Golf?
The Kroger Queen City Championship’s success has positioned Cincinnati as a year-round golf destination. With plans to expand fan engagement—including interactive experiences and community outreach—this event is poised to become a model for LPGA Tour tournaments nationwide.
As the field continues to grow, one question remains: Will 2026 see a new champion emerge, or will Thitikul, Korda, or Hull extend their dominance? The answer will unfold on the greens of Maketewah Country Club in May.