It’s strictly champions only as Leona Maguire begins her 2024 season at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions at Lake Nona, Florida.
Based in Nona, this is the perfect starting point for Maguire who is part of the elite, limited 35-player field that includes four of the top 10 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings, 2023 major winners Allisen Corpuz, Lilia Vu and Ruoning Yin and defending champion Brooke Henderson.
The 29-year-old from Cavan enjoyed a busy and successful 2023, winning for the second time in two years on the PGA Tour and playing another starring role as Europe made it a historic hat trick at the Solheim Cup in Finca Cortesin.
Maguire has five major championships on her mind as well as a gold medal bid at the upcoming Paris Olympics and a potential four-in-a-row Solheim Cup jaunt with Europe.
“That would be four [three wins and a retention] in a row, and that’s never been done before,” Maguire explained. “So, you’re moving into new territory all the time. It’s a challenge, but Suzann [Pettersen, who’ll captain Europe again] loves a challenge more than anybody. She’s already asked for feedback from this time around. So, I know she’s already getting ready.
Maguire will play back-to-back weeks in Florida including next week’s Drive On Championship before deciding on her summer schedule.
“I’m going to have to very carefully plan out next year with five majors, the Olympics, and the Solheim Cup again. It’s going to be a big, big summer, and it’s not easy to get the schedule right.
“I haven’t quite got that piece of the puzzle yet. But yeah, I mean, there are many big tournaments to look forward to next year.”
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