With the new year upon us, let’s take a look at the next 365 days and offer some bold predictions for the year in women’s golf:
Three LPGA Tour Rookies Will Win
After a year with no rookie winners in 2024, I think we will see a massive shift in 2025. Japanese stars Miyu Yamashita and Rio Takeda should be immediately impactful players in the new year, both already holding strong professional resumés. The Iwai twins also, from Japan, have major championship experience as well and will be strong candidates for the Rookie of the Year.
Jeeno Thitikul Will Win Player of the Year
This may not seem bold for a player who has flirted with this award in the past, but predicting anyone outside of Nelly Korda feels bold at this point. Thitikul ended the season strong, setting up for a lot of momentum in 2025. She should be fully healthy this season, and is clearly one of the most well-rounded players in the world. I could see four wins and a major out of Thitikul easily this year.
Danielle Kang Will Bounce Back
It has been a nightmare of a two years for Danielle Kang on the course, but I could see that start to turn around in 2025. Because of that, it is a bit unclear of her status after losing her card, which doesn’t necessarily mean she can’t return because of her great career prior to her struggles. I don’t necessarily see her returning to being one of the best American players in the world, or even a great one, but I can see a Lexi Thompson 2024 style season out of her.
Paula Creamer and Mel Reid Announced as Solheim Cup Captains
While conventional wisdom might say Angela Stanford and Anna Nordqvist are the favorites for the position, I’m not so sure. Creamer has only been an assistant captain once, but feels well equipped to pick up where Stacy Lewis left off. Creamer is one of the greatest United States Solheim Cup players ever, building up a 17-9-5 record. Nordqvist should be an easy European choice, but I doubt they will choose someone who will likely be in the discussion for a captain’s selection. Reid is a great emotional leader who should throw herself in the role and has been on two winning teams.
Japan Will Win The International Crown
This may not feel bold, but I think most would still consider the United States and Korea as the favorites. That being said, Japan has the greatest depth of high-end talent in the world right now. Yamashita, Takeda, Ayaka Furue, Nasa Hataoka, Yuka Saso, Mao Saigo and the Iwai twins should all be in heavy contention to make the four-player roster. While this team may have slightly less experience in the format, it should be more than formidable.
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