More Than a Celebrity Tournament: Celebrating the Women of the American Century Championship

Words: Krista Giovara

For 37 years Lake Tahoe has become the backdrop for one of golf’s most entertaining trournaments. Set against the bright blue waters of Lake Tahoe, the American Century Championship has grown into far more than a celebrity golf tournament. The event brings together 90 athletes, entertainers, broadcasters, and business leaders to compete over 54 holes for a share of a $750,000 purse while raising millions for local and national charities.

While the tournament is known for its star-studded field and spectacular setting, another story unfolds each year, one that celebrates the growing impact of influential women in golf helping shape the game both on and off the course.

This year’s field featured four women whose careers span professional golf, sports broadcasting, executive leadership, and digital media.

Leading the way is World Golf Hall of Famer Annika Sörenstam, with her seventh appearance at the American Century Championship opting to play from the men’s tees. With 72 LPGA Tour victories, 10 major championships, and 94 international wins, Sörenstam is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in golf history placing fourth overall this year. When asked about the future of the women’s game, she focused not on her accomplishments but on creating opportunities for others.

“I’ve always been an advocate for women in sports,” Sörenstam said.

She believes golf has evolved dramatically, with better venues, larger purses, more opportunities, equipment and apparel designed specifically for women. Still, she believes there is work to be done.

“There was a time when women didn’t really play golf,” she said. “We’ve made tremendous progress, but there’s still room for growth.”

As both a champion and a mother, Sörenstam hopes the next generation believes anything is possible. She understands why some women hesitate to step onto a stage like the American Century Championship.

“I’m thankful to be in the position I’m in,” she said. “A lot of women are intimidated and afraid they’ll embarrass themselves. I understand that. I’d probably feel the same if I didn’t do this for a living. It can be intimidating, but I hope we’ll continue to see more women playing here in the future.”

Sörenstam praised the tournament’s family atmosphere and the support she receives from fellow competitors, including Steph Curry. “Players like Steph Curry have been incredible advocates,” she said. “This tournament is family-oriented. My son walks the course, and my husband is my caddy. It makes the experience special.”

That family atmosphere is one of the event’s defining characteristics. In fact, Curry shared that he displays very few trophies in his home, one of the only two he keeps on display is from his victory at the American Century Championship, a reflection of just how meaningful this tournament has become.

Joining Sörenstam this year is golf personality Hally Leadbetter, daughter of legendary instructor David Leadbetter who earned a golf scholarship to the University of Arkansas before building a successful career in golf media.

Leadbetter believes one of the tournament’s greatest strengths is its welcoming environment.

“I’m grateful to be included,” she said. “No matter your gender, we’ve all been at different places in our golf journey. Everyone here has been in your shoes. We’ve all been first-time players, played well and not so well. It’s about having a good attitude and enjoying yourself.”

Leadbetter says she’s happy playing with anyone who’s there to have fun, a mindset she hopes encourages more women to say yes when opportunities arise.

NBC Sports reporter Kathryn Tappen returns to Lake Tahoe with a similar message.

“The biggest thing is confidence, to know you belong,” she said. “Women are just as qualified to play 18 holes as men.”

Tappen agrees that one of the biggest surprises has been the support she receives from the male competitors.