The Amundi Evian Championship has always had its sights set on a singular, noble goal: the elevation of women’s sport.
Now, as the tournament hits its 30-year milestone, it’s making waves again with a significant prize money boost.
The purse has swelled to a staggering $8 million, making a bold statement about the importance of achieving parity in sports.
A Legacy of Promoting Women’s Golf
Since its inception in 1994, The Amundi Evian Championship has stood as a beacon of excellence in women’s golf, representing the sole major championship in continental Europe.
It is one of the five prestigious LPGA majors and the only one that has held this unique distinction across both men’s and women’s games.
The championship’s steadfast commitment to promoting women’s sports has been unwavering, driven by a collective vision shared by its Sponsors’ Club, which includes illustrious names like Amundi, Rolex, Danone, and evian®.
LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan encapsulated the significance of this announcement perfectly: “This latest announcement from The Amundi Evian Championship illustrates its ongoing commitment and passion for empowering the world’s best professional golfers.”
“Since its inception 30 years ago, The Amundi Evian Championship has been a leader in advancing women’s golf and women’s sports on a global stage, providing a marquee platform for our athletes to inspire generations of young girls.”
“We are grateful for this support of our athletes as this great championship continues to grow, delivering one of the most exciting weeks in women’s sports for fans around the world. We can’t wait to tee it up in July.”
A Symbol of Progress
Franck Riboud, Chairman of The Amundi Evian Championship, reflected on the championship’s journey and its future trajectory: “It’s a beautiful symbol for the tournament’s 30th anniversary to announce this significant increase in our prize money.”
“Since our creation, our ambition has been to develop women’s sport and to give ever greater resources to the champions who represent it.”
“Today, thanks to the support of the LPGA and Ladies European Tour, the involvement of our loyal Sponsors Club and the exposure provided by the international media, The Amundi Evian Championship is more than ever part of the very exclusive circle of major women’s golf events.”
“It’s a source of immense pride for all those who have contributed and continue to contribute to its success.”
The purse has grown impressively by 146% since 2013, reflecting a broader trend in the increasing valuation of women’s sports.
Just since 2021, the prize pool has expanded by $3.5 million, with the winner’s share first crossing the $1 million threshold in 2022.
For 2024, major tournaments will collectively award a groundbreaking $46.9 million, marking an extraordinary 100% increase in just three years.
The latest boost to $8 million ensures that the winner of The Amundi Evian Championship will walk away with a cool $1.2 million, underscoring the championship’s role in driving parity in global sports.
Key Details of the Tournament
Set against the stunning backdrop of the French Alps, The Amundi Evian Championship will take place from Thursday, July 11th, 2024, to Sunday, July 14th, 2024, at the Evian Resort Golf Club.
This year’s tournament promises to be a spectacle, featuring the world’s top 132 female golfers, including defending champion Céline Boutier from France.
The four rounds of stroke play will culminate in a dramatic cut on Friday, July 12th, where only 65 players and ties will proceed.
Noteworthy participants include World No. 1 and top contender in the American Race to CME Globe standings, Nelly Korda (USA), and World No. 3, Céline Boutier. Bronte Law (ENG), the current leader in the LET Order of Merit, and Morgane Métraux (SWI), the European qualifier, will also be vying for the prestigious title.
Additionally, six tournament invitations have been extended, including awards for the ANNIKA Award and Rolex Girls Junior Player of the Year.
Enhanced Fan Experience and Accessibility
The Amundi Evian Championship has also rolled out new ticketing options to enhance the fan experience.
The Premium Ticket offers exclusive access to the Panoramic Bar, where spectators can enjoy snacks and drinks throughout the day while taking in breathtaking views of the tournament.
The Live Ticket provides flexible attendance, allowing golf enthusiasts to choose their preferred days without prior planning.
Getting to the tournament is convenient, with multiple transportation options available.
Whether arriving by train to Evian-les-Bains station, by plane to Geneva International Airport, by boat from Lausanne, or by car with available parking and shuttle services, fans will find their journey seamless.
Sponsors’ Club
The championship’s success is bolstered by the robust support of its Sponsors’ Club.
Title sponsor Amundi, along with major sponsors Danone, evian®, and Rolex, play a critical role in ensuring the tournament’s high standards.
Official sponsors like Accenture, Porsche, Randstad, and Canal+, alongside official suppliers such as Callaway and Ralph Lauren, further solidify the championship’s prestigious status.
Looking Forward
As The Amundi Evian Championship celebrates three decades of championing women’s golf, it continues to set the bar higher, inspiring future generations and pushing for greater equity in sports.
With a larger prize purse and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the championship promises to deliver yet another thrilling chapter in the annals of women’s golf.
