The LPGA Tour is in desperate need of sponsors. (Playadura/Flickr)
AS THE PLAYERS PREPARE for the U.S. Women’s Open at Saucon Valley in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, another drama is playing out that could lead to a dramatic shakeup on the LPGA Tour, which is in serious trouble due to lost sponsorships and other issues.
Golfweek magazine reported on Monday that LPGA Tour players have officially asked commissioner Carolyn Bivens to step down.
“A letter … was sent to the LPGA Board of Directors calling for Bivens’ resignation and an establishment of new leadership, a player who received a copy of the letter told Golfweek on Monday,” wrote senior writer Beth Ann Baldrey.
“Players stated in the letter that all of the tour’s problems can’t be blamed on a poor economy and expressed a desire to rebuild relationships with longtime sponsors. Those players in favor of Bivens’ resignation attached their names to the note. It was uncertain late Monday how many players support the resignation.”
The players weren’t named, but according to Golfweek star players such as Lorena Ochoa, Paula Creamer, Cristie Kerr, Morgan Pressel and Natalie Gulbis attended a July 2 meeting with player directors to discuss the LPGA’s dire situation.
The latest bad news was the cancellation of October’s LPGA Kapalua Classic for lack of a presenting sponsor. Six more events also lack sponsors.
“In the beginning of the year, I was like whatever,” Jeong Jang told Golfweek. “Now, I’m really worried about it.”
Meanwhile, at the U.S. Women’s Open, Cristie Kerr opened her player interview today with a written statement saying she didn’t want to talk about the LPGA situation, only this week’s tournament and her play.
Yep, things are really bad.
−The Armchair Golfer
This is really bad news for the golfing world because some really good golf is being played right now on the LPGA. Part of it may be racist because of the strong Oriental influence there right now. Then again, it may have nothing to do with it. The PGA may very well start seeing something similar if the overall economy doesn't improve.
I sincerely hope things improve sooon for the L.P.G.A. as I feel the competion in woman's golf today is unprecedented.
I hope the L.P.G.A. stays in business.
Yes, this is a bad news.