The R&A have confirmed the AIG Women’s Open will have a record-breaking $10 million prize fund, marking the sixth straight year the tournament has raised its purse.
This year’s event, taking place at Royal Lytham & St Annes from 29 July – 2 August, will commemorate its 50th anniversary. England’s Jenny Lee Smith claimed the inaugural title in 1967 which at the time had a total prize fund of $673.31.
Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, said: “These consistent and sustainable investments in the prize fund clearly demonstrate The R&A and AIG’s commitment to elevating the Championship on the global stage.”
Additionally, broadcast coverage of the major is set to be expanded to make it more available to fans.
“We will deliver a 20 percent increase in the live broadcast hours compared to 2025, giving fans all around the world more opportunity than ever before to watch the very best players compete,” Darbon explained.
The R&A also revealed that the 2028 edition of the event will be played at Sunningdale’s Old Course. It will be the fifth occasion Sunningdale has hosted the AIG Women’s Open having been the venue in 1997, 2001, 2004, and 2008.
“Sunningdale continues a run of world class venues for the AIG Women’s Open,” Darbon said. “Venue selection is incredibly important to The R&A and AIG as we remain committed to making the AIG Women’s Open one of the world’s leading women’s sports events.
“With a track record of producing outstanding champions, Sunningdale will provide a fantastic test of golf and we look forward to an exciting AIG Women’s Open in 2028.”
Last year’s event saw then rookie Miyu Yamashita of Japan claim a maiden major victory.