In a thrilling display of talent and sportsmanship, Team Australia recently claimed victory at the Hanwha LifePlus International Crown held in South Korea. This event not only highlighted the prowess of female golfers from around the globe but also made headlines with its announcement that the next edition of the tournament is set to return to San Francisco in 2027.
The 2027 Hanwha LifePlus International Crown will take place at the Lake Merced Golf Club, a renowned course designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie. This historic venue has been home to numerous LPGA events, making it a fitting choice for such a prestigious tournament. With its beautifully manicured fairways and challenging layout, Lake Merced offers a unique experience for both players and spectators alike.
Chan Hyuk Park, Head of the Wellness Experience Division at Hanwha Life Insurance, emphasized the significance of San Francisco as the host city. “San Francisco is home to the Hanwha AI Center (HAC), which serves as the AI hub for Hanwha Life Insurance, Hanwha General Insurance, and Hanwha Asset Management,” he explained. He further noted the special connection between the city and their joint financial brand, LIFEPLUS, which has been a sponsor of the San Francisco Giants since 2024. This partnership adds a personal touch to the tournament, bringing fans from different sports together.
Lydia Ko of New Zealand reacts after making an eagle to win the Mediheal Championship at Lake Merced Golf Club on April 29, 2018.
The recent 2023 edition of the Crown, won by Thailand, took place at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco. Despite the competitive nature of the event, the tournament lacked the fanfare typically associated with such high-stakes competitions. Since its inception in 2014 at Caves Valley Golf Club in Maryland, the Crown has evolved, showcasing the best female golfers from different nations.
Lake Merced Golf Club holds a special place in the hearts of many golfers, notably Lydia Ko, who boasts three victories at this esteemed venue. She clinched the Swinging Skirts LPGA Classic twice in 2014 and 2015, and later claimed the LPGA Mediheal Championship in 2018. Her successful history at Lake Merced contributes to the excitement surrounding the upcoming tournament.
Wilson Leung, president of Lake Merced Golf Club, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with the LPGA for the 2027 event. He highlighted the club’s rich history of hosting multiple LPGA events, which have been well received by their diverse membership. “This time, we are eager for the players to experience Gil Hanse’s recent restoration of the strategic Alister MacKenzie design from the early years of our club’s history. We are thrilled to welcome 32 of the top players from around the world to compete in this great tournament!” he stated, capturing the anticipation and pride of the club.
The decision to return to San Francisco for the Hanwha LifePlus International Crown underscores the city’s commitment to supporting women’s sports and provides an excellent opportunity for fans to witness world-class golfing talent in an iconic setting. With a captivating mix of history, competitive spirit, and a passionate local community, the 2027 tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience.