Chandler, Arizona, March 29, 2026
South Korea’s Hyo Joo Kim holds a commanding four-stroke lead at the Ford Championship, taking place at Whirlwind Golf Club in Chandler, Arizona. She set a new LPGA 54-hole record with a score of 25-under-par after a remarkable bogey-free round of 11-under 61. Close behind her, World No. 2 Nelly Korda trails at 21-under-par, as the exciting final round of the tournament approaches.
Phoenix, Arizona
History-maker Hyo Joo Kim leads at Ford Championship
South Korea’s Hyo Joo Kim has established a commanding four-stroke lead at the Ford Championship, held at Whirlwind Golf Club in Chandler, Arizona. Her exceptional performance included setting a new LPGA 54-hole record with a 25-under-par score through three rounds. The tournament, which began on March 26, 2026, is set to conclude today, March 29, 2026.
Kim’s Record-Breaking Performance
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, Kim delivered a remarkable bogey-free round of 11-under 61, featuring nine birdies and an eagle. This stellar play matched her first-round score and propelled her to a total of 25-under-par, marking the best 54-hole score in LPGA history and breaking the previous record by one stroke.
Championship Standings
Kim’s closest competitor is World No. 2 Nelly Korda, who sits four strokes behind at 21-under-par. Korda, who had led after the first two rounds, also carded a bogey-free round of 5-under 67 on Saturday. The final round today is anticipated to feature a compelling contest between the two top players.
Tournament Context and Prize Information
The Ford Championship is the sixth event of the 2026 LPGA season, offering a total purse of $2.25 million, with the winner taking home $337,500. Kim is the defending champion of this event, making her current lead a significant step towards securing back-to-back victories. Her recent form is also highlighted by her win at the 2026 Fortinet Founders Cup just last week.
In other notable news from the tournament, Nasa Hataoka achieved a hole-in-one on the 15th hole during the third round, winning a 2026 Ford Bronco Badlands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Hyo Joo Kim’s current standing at the Ford Championship?
Hyo Joo Kim leads the Ford Championship with a 25-under-par score through three rounds, holding a four-stroke advantage.
Did Hyo Joo Kim set any records at the Ford Championship?
Yes, Hyo Joo Kim set a new LPGA 54-hole record with her 25-under-par score through three rounds, breaking the previous record by one stroke.
When and where is the Ford Championship taking place?
The Ford Championship is taking place from March 26-29, 2026, at Whirlwind Golf Club in Chandler, Arizona.
Who is Hyo Joo Kim’s closest competitor?
Hyo Joo Kim’s closest competitor is World No. 2 Nelly Korda, who is four strokes behind at 21-under-par.
What is the prize money for the Ford Championship?
The Ford Championship has a total purse of $2.25 million, with the winner receiving $337,500.
Key Features of the Ford Championship
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tournament Name | Ford Championship |
| Dates | March 26-29, 2026 |
| Location | Whirlwind Golf Club, Chandler, Arizona |
| Current Leader | Hyo Joo Kim (South Korea) |
| Leader’s Score (After 54 Holes) | 25-under-par |
| LPGA Record Set | Lowest 54-hole score in LPGA history |
| Lead Margin | 4 strokes over Nelly Korda |
| Total Purse | $2.25 million |
| Winner’s Share | $337,500 |
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