2026 Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba: LPGA Returns to Mexico with Star-Studded Field

The 2026 Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba marks the LPGA Tour’s highly anticipated return to Mexico, set against the breathtaking backdrop of El Camaleón Golf Course. Scheduled for April 30 to May 3, 2026, this tournament promises world-class competition, a $2.5 million purse, and a field stacked with the game’s top talent. As the LPGA continues to expand its global footprint, the Riviera Maya Open stands as a celebration of women’s golf, blending elite athleticism with the natural beauty of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

The Field: Top Contenders and Rising Stars

The 2026 Riviera Maya Open features a 127-player field, including eight of the top 50 golfers in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. Headlining the tournament is Nelly Korda, the world No. 1 and a dominant force in women’s golf. Korda, a multiple major champion, enters the event as one of the favorites, bringing her signature precision and clutch putting to El Camaleón’s challenging layout.

Joining Korda are a host of international stars, including:

• Akie Iwai and Chizzy Iwai (Japan): The Iwai sisters have been making waves on the LPGA Tour, with Akie earning her first victory in 2025 and Chizzy consistently ranking among the top 30 in the world.
• Linn Grant (Sweden): A rising star in European golf, Grant has quickly adapted to the LPGA Tour, securing her first win in 2024 and climbing into the top 20 in the world rankings.
• Carlota Ciganda (Spain): A veteran of the LPGA Tour, Ciganda brings experience and consistency, with multiple top-10 finishes in 2025.
• Maria Fassi (Mexico): The homegrown talent will look to capitalize on the support of local fans, aiming to build on her strong performances in recent LPGA events.

The field also includes a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, such as Pajaree Anannarukarn (Thailand), Chella Choi (South Korea), and Isabella Fierro (Mexico). With three spots reserved for open qualifying, the tournament could observe additional surprises as local and regional players vie for a chance to compete alongside the world’s best.

El Camaleón: A Test of Skill and Strategy

El Camaleón Golf Course, designed by Greg Norman, is renowned for its unique blend of natural beauty and technical difficulty. The course’s signature features—narrow fairways, coastal winds, and the iconic cenote hazards—demand precision and creativity from players. The par-72 layout stretches over 6,900 yards, with water and jungle terrain adding to the challenge.

“El Camaleón is one of the most visually stunning courses on the LPGA Tour, but it’s also one of the most demanding,” said Nelly Korda in a pre-tournament interview. “The cenotes are a unique hazard that you don’t see anywhere else, and the winds can change the game in an instant. It’s a course that rewards smart play and adaptability.”

The tournament’s schedule is packed with fan-friendly activities, including a Fan Zone offering interactive exhibits, autograph sessions, and opportunities to meet LPGA players. The Terrace at Hole 15 provides a prime viewing spot for spectators, while hospitality packages offer an elevated experience for corporate guests and VIPs.

How to Watch the 2026 Riviera Maya Open

Fans around the world can catch all the action from the Riviera Maya Open through multiple platforms:

• LPGA Live Coverage: The LPGA’s official streaming platform will broadcast all four rounds, with featured groups and holes available for subscribers.
• Golf Channel: Comprehensive television coverage will air in the United States, with live broadcasts and highlights packages throughout the tournament.
• International Broadcasts: The event will be available in over 150 countries, with regional networks providing localized coverage. Check your local listings for details.

For those attending in person, tickets are available through the official tournament website, with options ranging from single-day passes to VIP hospitality packages. The event also offers free parking and shuttle services to ensure a seamless experience for spectators.

Why the Riviera Maya Open Matters

The Riviera Maya Open is more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of women’s golf and its growing global appeal. As the LPGA continues to expand its reach, events like this one play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of female golfers, particularly in Latin America. The tournament’s return to Mexico underscores the country’s importance as a hub for golf, with El Camaleón serving as a world-class venue that showcases the region’s natural beauty and hospitality.

“This tournament is a fantastic opportunity to grow the game in Mexico and beyond,” said LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan. “We’re thrilled to bring the world’s best players to Riviera Maya and give fans a chance to experience the excitement of LPGA golf firsthand.”

The 2026 Riviera Maya Open also highlights the LPGA’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The tournament partners with local organizations to promote environmental conservation and youth golf programs, ensuring a lasting positive impact on the region.

Key Takeaways for Fans

• Dates: April 30 – May 3, 2026.
• Location: El Camaleón Golf Course at Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
• Purse: $2.5 million, with the winner earning a significant share of the prize money.
• Top Contenders: Nelly Korda, Akie Iwai, Chizzy Iwai, Linn Grant, and Maria Fassi.
• Course Challenges: Narrow fairways, coastal winds, and cenote hazards.
• Fan Experience: Fan Zone, Terrace at Hole 15, autograph sessions, and hospitality packages.
• How to Watch: LPGA Live, Golf Channel, and international broadcasts.

FAQ

What is the Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba?

The Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba is a professional women’s golf tournament on the LPGA Tour, held annually at El Camaleón Golf Course in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The event features a $2.5 million purse and attracts the world’s top female golfers.

Who won the 2025 Riviera Maya Open?

The 2025 Riviera Maya Open was won by Linn Grant, who secured her second LPGA Tour victory with a final-round 66. Grant’s win marked a significant milestone in her career and highlighted the growing competitiveness of the tournament.

How can I buy tickets for the 2026 Riviera Maya Open?

Tickets for the 2026 Riviera Maya Open are available through the official tournament website. Options include single-day passes, multi-day packages, and VIP hospitality experiences.

What makes El Camaleón Golf Course unique?

El Camaleón Golf Course is known for its stunning natural beauty and challenging design. The course features narrow fairways, coastal winds, and cenote hazards—natural sinkholes that add an element of risk and reward to the game. Designed by Greg Norman, the course is a favorite among players and fans alike.

Is the Riviera Maya Open a major championship?

No, the Riviera Maya Open is not a major championship, but it is a prestigious event on the LPGA Tour. The tournament offers a significant purse and attracts a strong field, making it a key stop on the tour’s calendar.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Golf in Mexico

As the 2026 Riviera Maya Open approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling week of golf. With a star-studded field, a challenging course, and a vibrant fan experience, the tournament is poised to deliver unforgettable moments and further cement its place as a highlight of the LPGA season.

The success of the Riviera Maya Open also reflects the broader growth of women’s golf in Latin America. As more young players from the region emerge on the global stage, events like this one serve as a catalyst for development, inspiring the next generation of female golfers to pursue their dreams.

For fans, the tournament offers a unique opportunity to witness the world’s best players in action while enjoying the beauty and culture of Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Whether attending in person or watching from afar, the 2026 Riviera Maya Open is an event not to be missed.