Brooke Henderson recorded a strong opening round at the 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship on Friday [1].
Henderson is a former champion of the event, having won the 2016 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship [2]. Her current performance puts her in a prime position to contend for the title once again at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota [2].
The Canadian professional golfer maintained a high ranking throughout the early stages of the tournament. She sat in the top five [2] midway through the first round. Her momentum continued on the back nine, where she recorded three birdies [1].
Henderson said personal news provided extra motivation for her performance on the course. She cited the birth of her newborn niece, Sahalee, as a source of inspiration [3].
The tournament continues this week at the Hazeltine National Golf Club, where the field is competing for the championship title [1]. Henderson's early success marks a significant start to the event for the veteran player [2].
“She sat in the top five midway through the first round.”
Henderson's early lead and psychological motivation suggest a high level of competitiveness as she looks to reclaim a title she first won a decade ago. Her ability to maintain a top-five position midway through the opening round establishes her as a primary contender for the 2026 championship.
