LPGA announces extension for Kroger Queen City Championship through 2026

MAINEVILLE, Ohio − The Kroger Queen City Championship Presented by P&G is staying in Greater Cincinnati.

During media day on Friday, the tournament announced that Kroger and Procter & Gamble have announced a partnership with the LPGA through 2026 with plans to keep the tournament at TPC River's Bend in Maineville.

"It's truly a testament to Kroger and P&G and their continued commitment to elevate women's sports and women's golf," Tournament Director Emily Norell said. "It solidifies Ohio and attracting the world's best golfers. The LPGA and a lot of those players are no stranger to this course. Announcing this extension at TPC River's Bend just felt so appropriate. So excited and proud to be a part of this. With all the support of Kroger and P&G, this wouldn't have been possible. It's really putting that stake in the ground for women athletes and really setting the tone."

Entering its third year, the Kroger Queen City Championship will include 144 of the world's best golfers from Sept. 19-22 at TPC River's Bend competing for a $2 million purse. After Kenwood Country Club hosted the tournament the last two years, it was announced in March that event was moving to TPC River's Bend.

"I know the intent was to have it closer to the city of Cincinnati. After further research, we just realized this was the place to be. It's built for this," TPC River's Bend General Manager Michelle Lipka said. "It was super exciting to think about having all of these world-class athletes here. Knowing the facility like I do, it just seemed like a natural fit."

TPC River's Bend has hosted the Champions Tour as well as several other major events before the LPGA entered the fold. While being a good fit from a length standpoint (6,700 yards), the Arnold Palmer-designed course is also advantageous for spectators with an elevated view at the holes from the clubhouse.

"We are excited to showcase our golf course," Lipka said.

The full field for this year's event has yet to be announced, though it will include World No. 1 Nelly Korda, the tournament announced on Thursday. The 26-year-old has won six times this year and it will be her first Kroger Queen City Championship appearance.

Minjee Lee, who overcame Charley Hull in a two-hole playoff to win last year's tournament , is back, along with 11-time LPGA Tour champion Lexi Thompson, who will retire at the end of the year. Gold medalist Lydia Ko has also been announced .

"Our field is the deepest and strongest it's ever been," Norell said.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: LPGA announces extension for Kroger Queen City Championship through 2026