The 2025 Ford Championship is right around the corner, and guess what? Nelly Korda is back to defend her title! In 2024, she won by two strokes, continuing her victorious streak. This year, the tournament will take place at the stunning Whirlwind Golf Club from March 27-30. With a massive $2.25 million prize pool on the line (including a $300,000 winner’s check) and 500 CME points up for grabs, the competition is bound to be intense.
Korda will be facing off against a field stacked with major champions, making this an event you won’t want to miss. The stakes are high, the talent is top-tier, and the drama is guaranteed. The only question is—who could come out on top this year?
5. Ruoning Yin
Ruoning Yin is heading to Arizona with one goal—adding another win to her resume. And honestly, she’s got what it takes! While she hasn’t had her big breakthrough this season just yet, you can bet she’s fired up to change that.
So far in 2025, she’s played three events—finishing T26 at the Honda LPGA Thailand, T21 at the HSBC, and T33 at the Blue Bay LPGA. Not exactly eye-catching, right? But let’s not forget her incredible 2024 season.
She teed it up in 20 events, made the cut in 18, and walked away with three victories at the Dow Championship, Buick LPGA Shanghai, and Maybank Championship. On top of that, she landed four additional top-10 finishes and even represented China at the Olympics, where she finished at T10.
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Yin has proven she can win—now, it’s just about finding that extra push to get back in the winner’s circle. Could this be the week she makes it happen? It remains to be seen.
4. Hannah Green
Hannah Green isn’t just another competitor—she’s a serious threat. With six LPGA wins, including a major, she’s already proven she belongs among the best. And judging by her recent form, she’s only getting better.
This season, Green has been making steady moves up the leaderboard. She started her season with a T20 finish, then climbed to T4 at the Founders Cup, and most recently secured a T7 at the HSBC Women’s World Championship. At 28, she’s in peak form, showing that she’s not just here to compete—she’s here to dominate.
Looking back at 2024, Green had an impressive season, playing 20 events and making 16 cuts. She recorded her first-ever three-win season on Tour, successfully defended her title at the JM Eagle LA Championship, and added three more top-10 finishes, including a runner-up spot at the Mizuho Americas Open. On top of that, she represented Australia at the Olympics, finishing T4 and proving she can handle high-pressure moments.
With a track record like that, Green is definitely one to watch. If she keeps up this momentum, we might just see her lifting the trophy!
3. Jin Young Ko
Jin Young Ko came so close to winning the Founders Cup—but victory just slipped through her fingers. Ouch. That kind of near-miss stings, but it also fuels the fire. And if anyone knows how to turn that frustration into a win, it’s Ko.
She’s been putting up solid performances this season, with finishes like T4, 2nd, T45, and T18. Now, if she wants to climb to the top, she’ll need to bring back the magic that won her the 2023 HSBC Women’s World Championship. Sure, 2024 was a winless season for her, but to be fair, she’s already got 15 LPGA Tour wins under her belt. And with the way she’s trending, this just might be the tournament where she bags her 16th. Keep an eye on Ko—she’s got unfinished business.
2. Lyida Ko
If 2024 belonged to anyone, it was Lydia Ko. It was nothing short of legendary for Ko. Not only did she win three times and rack up eight top-10 finishes, but she also secured Olympic gold in Paris, earning her a spot in the LPGA Hall of Fame. And in 2025, she’s showing no signs of slowing down. The three-time major champion has already started her season with a win at the HSBC Women’s World Championship. She’ll want to keep that momentum going.
1. Nelly Korda
Do we even need to explain why she’s the top favorite? She’s World No. 1, after all. She’s been here, she’s conquered. Last year, Nelly Korda put on a stellar performance, carding a 7-under 65 in the final round to claim a beautiful victory. And now, back on familiar turf, her mission is clear—defend her title.
So far in 2025, she’s played just two events, both were impressive. She secured a runner-up finish at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament and grabbed a T7 finish at the Founders Cup. She’s been knocking on the door, and this could be the week she finally breaks through for her first win of the season.
But of course, she’s not the only one to watch. This year’s field also features 18 talented rookies, all eager to make their mark. So, who’s your pick to take home the trophy? Let us know your predictions in the comments!
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