Kroger and Procter & Gamble have announced their decision to cease sponsorship of the LPGA's Cincinnati tournament, the Kroger Queen City Championship. This move marks the end of a five-year partnership for an event that consistently drew large crowds, with around 50,000 spectators attending. The tournament, which recently saw Lottie Woad clinch victory over Haeran Ryu at Maketewah Country Club, had become a significant stop on the LPGA tour. The withdrawal of these major sponsors comes as both companies reassess their strategic focuses, signaling a shift in their long-term engagement with professional golf.
The Kroger Queen City Championship, presented by P&G, had been a prominent event on the LPGA circuit for half a decade. Over its tenure, it was hosted across three different courses, most recently at Maketewah Country Club. Historically held in the autumn, the tournament's schedule was adjusted to mid-May in 2026, a change that coincided with its final iteration under the current sponsorship. The event was not only a sporting spectacle but also a significant community gathering, demonstrating the broad appeal of women's professional golf in the Cincinnati area.
A spokesperson for Kroger indicated that the company's decision stemmed from a desire to concentrate resources on other areas that align more closely with their evolving long-term objectives. This strategic re-evaluation follows the appointment of Greg Foran as Kroger's new Chief Executive Officer in February. Similarly, Procter & Gamble, a co-sponsor, is also redirecting its efforts. The departure of these corporate giants leaves a void in the tournament's funding, necessitating a new direction for the Cincinnati stop or its potential discontinuation.
The LPGA tour, which currently features 31 official events, is undergoing a significant strategic review under the leadership of Commissioner Craig Kessler. Having completed his first full year in the role, Kessler is reportedly working on a comprehensive revamp of the tour's schedule. While specific details of this future blueprint are yet to be disclosed, sources suggest that at least one new event is anticipated to be announced in the coming months, indicating a proactive approach to evolving the tour's offerings.
In a statement provided to Golfweek, the LPGA expressed gratitude to Kroger and P&G for their substantial partnership over the past five years. The tour acknowledged the meaningful investment made by both companies in its athletes, fans, and the Cincinnati community through the championship. The LPGA also highlighted the collective achievements during this period, extending thanks to the host venues, volunteers, and all contributors to the tournament's success. This acknowledgment underscores the collaborative effort that sustained the event for its duration.
Looking ahead, the LPGA is optimistic about the direction of its 2027 schedule. The organization is committed to implementing significant improvements in several key areas, including tournament routing, course selections, and prize money. These strategic enhancements are aimed at elevating the overall quality and appeal of the tour. Further details regarding these planned changes are expected to be unveiled later this fall, as the LPGA continues to shape its future landscape in professional women's golf.
The conclusion of Kroger and P&G's sponsorship marks a pivotal moment for the LPGA's presence in Cincinnati. While the event enjoyed considerable success and community engagement, the evolving priorities of its former sponsors have led to this change. The LPGA, under its new leadership, is actively working to reshape its future schedule, promising significant enhancements and potential new tournament announcements, ensuring the continued growth and vitality of women's professional golf.
