Nelly Korda stands on the edge of history at the ANNIKA 2026. She needs just one more victory to join the LPGA Hall of Fame. This weekend in Belleair, Florida, she gets her chance. The Bradenton resident returns to Pelican Golf Club with a clear goal in mind. She has already won here in 2021, 2022, and 2024. Another title would make her the first four-time champion in the event’s history. A win also secures her spot in the Hall of Fame. That single point she is missing is now within reach.
The Race for Four Wins
History favors Korda, but the field is fierce. The tournament runs November 12 through 15 with a massive $3.25 million purse. NGSC Sports reports that 108 players will compete for the title. This event is the penultimate stop before the CME Group Tour Championship. That honor moved her within one point of Hall of Fame eligibility. No player has won the same LPGA tournament four times since Annika Sörenstam in 2005. Korda knows the course better than anyone else in the field. She understands the demanding greens and the strategic approach shots required to score. Yet, history alone does not guarantee a trophy. She faces 17 major champions and numerous international stars ready to challenge her.
Grant and Others Look to Stop the Streak
Linn Grant enters the week as the defending champion. The Swedish golfer won last year with an impressive 19-under-par performance. Her nearest competitor trailed by three strokes at the finish. Her victory marked her second LPGA Tour championship. Grant is dangerous because she can control iron shots and capitalize on birdie opportunities. She must establish momentum early to avoid unnecessary mistakes around the greens. Haeran Ryu also enters as a top contender. She ranks third in the world and poses a serious threat. The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican brings the world’s best female golfers to the Tampa Bay area. The 2026 LPGA Tour season reaches its climax this weekend.
