Brooke Henderson embraces the attention she receives while competing in Canada’s LPGA tournament. As a two-time champion of the CPKC Women’s Open, she has shown in both Mississauga last year and Regina in 2018 that the added spotlight during her home-country event is not overwhelming for her.
“This week is quite demanding and holds a special place for me,” Henderson expressed. “I have been able to draw energy and positivity from the fans who come out to support me. The love and enthusiasm from the crowd have been advantageous for me over the years, and it’s truly exciting.”
The golfer from Smiths Falls, Ont., aged 28, will aim for a third victory in her home tournament, commencing Thursday at Edmonton’s Royal Mayfair Club, where she will strive to defend her title from last year. Reflecting on her past wins, Henderson recalled the significance of her 2018 triumph, considering it a career highlight and a dream come true. Last year’s victory was particularly special as her sister was on her bag during the win, adding sentimental value to the moment.
The highly anticipated $2.75 million US CPKC Women’s Open will feature six of the world’s top 10 golfers, with American Nelly Korda holding the top spot. Henderson currently ranks at No. 11 among the top 25 players.
Having achieved top-three finishes in this year’s Women’s PGA Championship and the Evian Championship, Henderson feels a resurgence in her game. Following a playoff loss in the latter to Haeran Ryu of South Korea, she is coming off a tie for 29th in the AIG Women’s Open and has successfully made the cut in all five majors this year.
“I felt like my game has returned to its former level after two strong major finishes this summer,” Henderson stated. “This has boosted my confidence and momentum for the remainder of the year, and I aim to capitalize on that this week.”
In personal life updates, Henderson recently became engaged to Ricky Castro, a pitching prospect for the Minnesota Twins, and also became an aunt. These positive developments off the course have contributed to her on-course performance by instilling a sense of relaxation and freedom that every golfer strives for, she shared.
Henderson leads a group of 15 Canadians in the field of 156 professionals and amateurs at the 6,452-yard, par-70 course in Edmonton. Seventeen-year-old Anna Huang from Vancouver, who claimed her fourth Ladies European Tour victory on August 9 in London, expressed excitement about competing among the world’s best players.
The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open marks the 52nd edition of the tournament in Canada since its inception in 1973. Returning to Edmonton for the fourth time and the Royal Mayfair for the third time, this year’s event holds a special place in history. Lydia Ko, a three-time winner of the tournament, will aim for an unprecedented fourth victory, following her successes in 2012, 2013, and 2015.
Ko emphasized the significance of the CPKC Women’s Open in Calgary as pivotal to her career, helping her prepare for an Olympic gold medal win in Paris. She noted the historical importance of the tournament in shaping her career.
Despite the rainy conditions in Edmonton, with 56 centimeters (22 inches) of rain since June 1, the forecast for the tournament predicts a mix of sun and clouds until showers arrive on Saturday night. Players are preparing for the challenge of mosquitoes due to the wet weather, with Ko mentioning her precautions with insect repellents and protective clothing. Henderson acknowledged the bug presence but noted her familiarity with such conditions, highlighting it as a potential factor in the competition.
The tournament attendance record of 73,000, set in 2024 at Earl Grey Golf Club in Calgary, remains unbeaten, showcasing the growing popularity of the CPKC Women’s Open.