Lydia Ko Applauds CME CEO's Support for Women's Golf Prize Money Increase

Lydia Ko, one of the top female golfers in the world, recently praised Terrance A. Duffy, CEO of CME Group, for his unwavering support of women’s golf.

Ko’s comments came during a press conference ahead of the final round of the 2024 CME Group Tour Championship, which boasts a record prize pool of $11 million.

Lydia Ko Applauds CME Group’s Support for Women’s Golf

Ko, who is tied for 12th place in the competition after three rounds, took the opportunity to highlight the significant role that Duffy and CME Group have played in growing the women’s game.

“Terry has just been an unbelievable supporter,” Ko said, adding that the increase in prize money across major championships and domestic events has been “really, really cool” to witness over the 11 years she has played professionally.

Huge Prize Pool at the CME Group Tour Championship

This year’s CME Group Tour Championship features a prize pool of $11 million, with the winner taking home an impressive $4 million.

Ko expressed her gratitude for the partners behind the tournament, including CME, AIG, and Chevron, for continuing to “believe in” the players and for helping elevate women’s golf to new heights.

Ko emphasised that the increase in purses across the board allows players to compete on a level playing field and further showcases the talent of the world’s top female golfers. “We deserve it. They deserve it,” Ko remarked, acknowledging the incredible growth of the women’s game and the attention it is receiving.

Final Round Strategies and Ko’s Focus

As Ko prepares for the final round of the event on November 24 in Naples, Florida, she shared her strategy for the last day of competition. Despite the high stakes and the massive purse, Ko is focused on maintaining the consistency she has displayed throughout the tournament.