Get ready for a major shake-up in women’s golf! The Chevron Championship is packing its bags and heading to a new home in 2025, and it’s a move that’s already sparking conversations. But here’s where it gets controversial: after a tumultuous few years, the LPGA’s first major is leaving Carlton Woods behind and setting up shop at Memorial Park Golf Course just outside Houston. Why the change? And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about location; it’s about legacy, visibility, and the future of women’s golf.
On April 27, 2025, golf fans witnessed a chaotic yet thrilling final round of the Chevron Championship at The Club at Carlton Woods, capped off by a nail-biting five-way playoff. But as the dust settles, the focus shifts to the tournament’s new chapter. The LPGA confirmed on Wednesday that the 2025 Chevron Championship, scheduled for April 23-26, will relocate to Memorial Park, a move that brings the event closer to Chevron’s corporate headquarters and the heart of Houston. LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler emphasized, ‘Chevron’s partnership isn’t just about hosting a championship; it’s about elevating women’s golf as a platform to inspire and grow the game. Moving to Memorial Park strengthens that vision by connecting more fans and communities to our athletes.’
But let’s rewind for a moment. The Chevron Championship’s journey hasn’t been without drama. After a controversial exit from its longtime home at Mission Hills in California, the tournament spent the last three years at Carlton Woods in The Woodlands. While last year’s event, won by Mao Saigo, delivered unforgettable moments, it was also marred by players using the 18th hole grandstand as a backstop—a quirky yet problematic feature of the course. And let’s not forget the attendance struggles, which paled in comparison to the 51-year run at Mission Hills, where crowds were consistently robust.
Memorial Park, currently the host of the PGA Tour’s Houston Open, offers a fresh start. By moving the Chevron Championship here, the LPGA not only aligns with Chevron’s corporate presence but also leverages the infrastructure and fan experience already in place for the men’s event, which will be held about a month prior. But is this enough to reignite the tournament’s former glory? Some argue that the move prioritizes logistics over tradition, while others see it as a strategic step toward greater visibility and sustainability.
The planned relocation was first reported by Golfweek in November, but the official announcement has reignited debates about the tournament’s identity and its place in golf history. Is this a bold step forward, or a risky departure from tradition? We want to hear from you—share your thoughts in the comments below. One thing’s for sure: the 2025 Chevron Championship at Memorial Park is shaping up to be a must-watch event, not just for the golf, but for the conversations it’s bound to spark.