Brooke Henderson embraces the pressure of playing in Canada’s LPGA tournament. The two-time CPKC Women’s Open champion showcased her comfort with the added attention during the events in Mississauga in 2021 and Regina in 2018. Henderson expressed appreciation for the supportive fans, describing the tournament as demanding yet special.
Henderson, a 28-year-old golfer from Smiths Falls, Ontario, is preparing to defend her title and aim for a third victory at the Royal Mayfair Club in Edmonton, starting Thursday. Reflecting on her past wins, Henderson highlighted the significance of her 2018 victory and the emotional moment of having her sister present during last year’s triumph.
The upcoming $2.75 million CPKC Women’s Open features top-ranked players, including world No. 1 Nelly Korda. Henderson, ranked 11th globally, has been in good form, securing top-three finishes in major tournaments this year.
Following notable performances in recent competitions, Henderson expressed confidence in her game, attributing her success to hard work and positive momentum. Additionally, she shared personal milestones, such as becoming engaged to Ricky Castro, a prospect with the Minnesota Twins.
Henderson leads a group of 15 Canadian participants in the tournament, set on the 6,452-yard course at Royal Mayfair in Edmonton. Vancouver’s Anna Huang, a 17-year-old golf prodigy, adds to the competitive field after her recent victory in London.
The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open marks the 52nd edition of the prestigious tournament in Canada. Notably, the event returns to Edmonton for the fourth time, with Lydia Ko, a three-time champion, aiming for a historic fourth title.
Ko, whose career was shaped by past tournament successes, emphasized the significance of the CPKC Women’s Open in her professional journey. Despite challenging weather conditions in Edmonton, players are preparing for the competition, with Henderson and Ko acknowledging the presence of mosquitoes as a potential factor affecting gameplay.
The tournament’s rich history and the competitive field set the stage for an exciting event, with Henderson, Ko, and other top players vying for victory at the Royal Mayfair Club.