BRADENTON, Fla. – The 2025 LPGA Founders Cup showcased remarkable talent and determination as golfers returned to the greens at the scenic Bradenton Country Club. The event, dedicated to honoring the pioneers of women's golf, saw established and rising players make significant impacts over the tournament days.
Among the noteworthy participants was Lexi Thompson, the 29-year-old 11-time LPGA Tour winner who, after announcing her semi-retirement last season, returned determined to make her mark. Opening with a solid 2-under 69, Thompson, carrying the support of her brother Curtis as her caddy, expressed the importance of being part of the Founders Cup. “Being the Founders Cup, it’s so important to be here and show our support of the founders,” Thompson shared with Golfweek. “They’re the reason why we’re out here today. It’s important for all of us to be here and show...our gratefulness for them.”
Despite her semi-retirement status, which opens the door for fewer tournaments, Thompson remains committed to participating in significant events, including two of the majors scheduled for this season. Currently sitting at 55th in the Rolex Rankings, she emphasized the mental relief of managing her schedule, saying, “It's definitely more ease of mind. When I go out to practice...I wasn't going to play this week if I didn't feel good about it.” Thompson is determined to compete for wins, remaining optimistic and focused as she eyes the upcoming major tournaments.
Another standout was 23-year-old Yealimi Noh, who notched eight birdies for a stunning 7-under 64 during the second round, sharing the lead with Jin Hee Im at 10 under. Noh has witnessed significant improvement since adopting the long putter, which she credited for enhancing her performance. “All my shots were where I was trying to hit them, tempo was really good, and some putts were dropping,” Noh reflected on her successful round. Her performance tied the 18-hole scoring record at Bradenton and her two-day total of 132 matched the 36-hole record previously set by Nelly Korda.
Inspired by her resurgence last season, when she regularly finished among the top ranks, Noh’s dedication to refining her game is evident. She explained how her father's and coach's suggestion to switch to the long putter transformed her approach to the game: “I never even thought of trying it...now using it a year after, my stroke has gotten really solid and my speed is great with the putter.” Her developments echo the potential for remarkable performances for the remainder of the season.
Jin Hee Im also made headlines as she navigated the fog delays impacting tee times, finishing well and exhibiting resilience. After the rounds, she expressed how the weather conditions affected strategies, stating, “Today I don't have sleep well, but the fog delay made good break for me.” Her focus during practice on Bermuda grass proved beneficial, and with encouragement from her caddie, David Poitevent, she adapted effectively during competition.
Two-time major winner Minjee Lee also adopted the long putter this season and demonstrated impressive play, highlighting the rising trend among LPGA players investing in their putting techniques. Noh's notable performance alongside Thompson and Im indicates the upcoming competition could intensify as the players gear up for more significant challenges.
Despite the highly competitive environment, the camaraderie evident among the players, including fueling each other’s ambitions, shines bright. With more events on the horizon, including the upcoming majors, the pressure and stakes will increase as these dedicated athletes continue to exhibit their passion and skills.
The Founders Cup not only stands as one of the premier tournaments of the LPGA circuit but also reflects the commitment and evolution of women's golf, emphasizing both tradition and progress. The tournament provides the perfect stage for showcasing rising talents like Noh and established champions such as Thompson and Im, ensuring fans remain engaged and eager for more action.