Ten-year LPGA veteran Amy Olson has seen her fair share of fellow competitors quit professional golf due to financial problems.
Although total LPGA prize money continues to rise, it is still possible to make the cut and lose money on tour.
“You have to have a ride that provides sustainability for the next generation, and we don’t have that right now,” Olson told Golf week back in November 2022. Fast forward to August 2023 and the LPGA has taken a step forward.
Players who compete in all five of the LPGA’s major championships are guaranteed minimum payouts to help cover expenses. Starting this week, the LPGA will now be able to offset player expenses at additional tournaments over the next five seasons thanks to a new multi-year partnership with Accenture.
Each of the 144 players in the field at this week’s Portland Classic will be guaranteed a minimum payout, the same for those who tee off at the Ascendant LPGA Benefiting Volunteers of America in October. Players who competed at the LOTTE Championship in April received a travel stipend to help cover costs associated with traveling to and from Hawaii. Golfers who played the Dana Open presented by Marathon in July also received a minimum payout.
“We are so proud to partner with Accenture as we work to improve financial opportunities for our players and offer new and innovative ways to engage with fans,” LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan said in a release. “Through this partnership with Accenture, we are making further progress toward achieving pay equity and ensuring that women and girls can pursue their dreams in the game of golf.”
Entry fees on the Epson Tour will be lowered by $50 across 20 events for the next five seasons, and Accenture will also become the official Diversity, Equity and Inclusion partner for the development tour. The company will also advise on the LPGA’s metaverse strategy to help expand potential revenue opportunities for players, sponsors and partners.
“Combining tangible, immediate improvements such as lower entry fees and looking to create future revenue streams for the league and its players throughout the metaverse is a way to promote inclusion and a culture of equality for women,” added Christie Smith, senior manager. director of Accenture’s talent and organization group. “The LPGA is taking the lead in this area, but every sport will benefit from its example.”