Brooke Henderson, with 14 victories on the LPGA Tour, achieved a significant milestone by winning the CPKC Women’s Open for the second time. In the final round on Sunday, she carded a 4-under 67 to edge out Australia’s Minjee Lee by one stroke, clinching the Canadian national women’s golf championship. This triumph marked the end of a more than two-year dry spell, making the victory even more special for Henderson.
“This win feels particularly extraordinary as it has been the longest gap between victories for me,” Henderson expressed. “Securing the CPKC Women’s Open title for the second time holds immense significance.”
Having previously triumphed at the Women’s Open in 2018 at Wascana Country Club, Henderson became the first Canadian since 1973 to claim the national championship, a feat she has now accomplished twice in seven years.
The win not only added to her career tally but also solidified her position as the most successful Canadian professional golfer. Reflecting on her victory, Henderson shared, “This week has been truly exceptional. Winning the trophy again feels incredibly surreal. I vividly remember the moment from 2018 and am still processing the momentous win.”
Henderson and Lee had shared the lead after the third round on Saturday at 11 under, three strokes ahead of the competition. The final pairing of Henderson and Lee garnered massive crowds due to Henderson’s popularity in Canada and Lee’s stellar track record, including 11 LPGA Tour victories, including this year’s Women’s PGA Championship.
Speaking about the challenging conditions, Lee mentioned, “Competing with a large crowd today was tough. I focused on maintaining mental strength and executing my game plan to improve my score. Overall, I am satisfied with my performance.”
Henderson’s victory at the CPKC Women’s Open marked her first win since the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in January 2023. Despite facing struggles and doubts during the winless period, Henderson credited her family for their unwavering support and encouragement. She expressed, “There were undoubtedly some tough times, but my family’s constant support kept me going. Breaking the winless streak is truly exhilarating.”
Following her win, Henderson is poised to climb to 26th on the LPGA Tour’s points list, enhancing her chances to represent the World Team at the Hanwha LIFEPLUS International Crown in late October and compete in the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship in late November.
Excited about the upcoming events, Henderson stated, “I am looking forward to the remainder of the season and the opportunities ahead. Securing my spot in the CME Group Tour Championship with this win is a great motivation for me.”
Veteran golfer Lorie Kane, a four-time LPGA Tour winner and member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, commended Henderson’s achievements and hoped that Canadians would give her the recognition she deserves for her remarkable accomplishments.
“I hope people start acknowledging Brooke’s talent and the incredible feat she has achieved with her 14 wins,” Kane remarked. “This win signifies her exceptional skills, and I believe she deserves more credit for her outstanding performances.”
Additionally, fifteen-year-old Calgary native Aphrodite Deng finished in a tie for 20th place as the tournament’s low amateur, showcasing promising talent among the younger generation in Canadian golf.