Will the LPGA Survive?
Golf has been taking its hits due to a poor economy. The economic downturn has created some problems with the LPGA. But how much trouble is the LPGA in? They’ve lost 2 sponsors this year and I believe three more will follow. Also contracts with 11 other sponsors will expire at the end of the year. Only time will tell if they renew. Why the powers that be didn’t stagger those sponsors’ contracts over a period of years is beyond me. Corning pulled the plug after 31 years of sponsoring the Corning Classic due to a loss of profits. If an institution like Corning pulls the plug, how many other sponsors will follow? The LPGA is also having leadership problems. Seven of their top executives have resigned. Players are concerned that the leaders are going in the wrong direction. A bright note is the contract with J Golf, the tour’s new South Korean TV partner. I believe they are going to sponsor a tournament in Los Angeles. Another bright spot is the long term deal with the Golf channel. Whethe
