Nine years ago, Lexi Thompson became the youngest winner of a women’s Major championship. And now, she’ll join Lydia Ko—the 2016 Chevron champion—as a special guest at Nelly Korda’s Champions Dinner table. Both former hosts will now be hosted by Korda. It’s a powerful role reversal that highlights golf’s most cherished tradition.
As defending champion, Nelly Korda earned the honor of hosting this exclusive gathering. The tradition of passing hosting duties creates unique moments in LPGA history. Thompson hosted in 2015 after her breakthrough win, while Ko took the reins in 2017 following her victory. Monday night, both returned as guests to celebrate Korda’s ascension.
The Chevron Championship captured this moment perfectly on X, posting: “Earned, not given. This is our champions’ circle.” These words underscore the significance of hosting duties. Thompson earned her seat through victory in 2014. Ko earned hers in 2016. Now, Korda adds her name to this elite circle through her dominant 2024 performance.
Earned, not given. This is our champions’ circle. #thechevronchampionship pic.twitter.com/HDMKz2wTlT
— The Chevron Championship (@Chevron_Golf) April 22, 2025
Thompson’s 2015 hosting year captured her youthful exuberance and American roots. Her Champions Dinner reflected her personality—celebratory yet relaxed. As the tournament’s youngest winner, she brought fresh energy while bridging generations of champions.
Ko’s 2017 hosting duties showcased the LPGA’s global diversity through her New Zealand and Korean-inspired menu. Her media sessions highlighted characteristic humility while discussing tournament challenges and the LPGA’s growing support for women’s golf.
Monday night was Korda’s turn to shape this tradition. She partnered with Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller for an elegant menu. “He was great,” Korda said. “I met him at Chevron, and he’s been a great supporter of the LPGA. For him to do this, it’s so special and so cool.”
The hosting role extends beyond menu selection. Past hosts like Thompson and Ko engaged fans through media sessions, offering insights into course strategy and preparation. Their leadership elevated the Champions Dinner’s prestige in the LPGA calendar.
Unlike the Masters Champions Dinner, which embraces home-style cuisine reflecting Augusta’s Southern roots, the Chevron tradition leans toward luxury and exclusivity. The Masters’ menu often features comfort food chosen by champions, while Chevron dinners showcase sophisticated culinary experiences. Jennifer Kupcho’s 2019 Women’s Amateur Champions Dinner at Augusta bridged this gap, featuring Italian cuisine that balanced sophistication with approachability. This contrast highlights how each tradition reflects its tournament’s unique character.
As these champions switched roles from host to guest Monday evening, the tradition’s power became clear. Each passing of the torch represents growth, legacy, and continuity. Thompson and Ko once commanded the head of the table—Monday night, they supported Korda as she took her place in history.
Nelly Korda joins the cherished Chevron Champions Hosting legacy
The Champions Dinner tradition carries weight well beyond a single evening. Since the late 1980s, this ritual has created lasting bonds between generations. Amy Alcott established the custom after her iconic leap into Poppie’s Pond.
Each host leaves their unique imprint on the tradition. Pernilla Lindberg’s 2019 hosting followed her marathon eight-hole playoff victory. Jin Young Ko‘s 2020 tenure happened during the pandemic, creating a subdued yet memorable atmosphere. Patty Tavatanakit’s 2022 hosting marked the final Champions Dinner at Mission Hills, adding emotional weight to that year’s gathering.
The event has adapted through significant transitions. When Jennifer Kupcho hosted in 2023, she presided over the first Champions Dinner at Carlton Woods in Texas. Despite the venue change, traditions like the victory leap into the pond continued, symbolizing respect for the tournament’s heritage.
The dinner’s exclusivity fosters mentorship among champions. Brittany Lincicome’s 2016 hosting emphasized the tradition’s celebratory nature. Ryu So-yeon’s 2018 tenure showcased the LPGA’s increasing internationalization. Veterans share wisdom with newer winners, discussing everything from course strategy to family balance.
Monday’s dinner demonstrated the tradition’s enduring strength. Korda joined Thompson and Ko in the hosting pantheon. She became part of a legacy that has survived venue changes, pandemic challenges, and generational shifts. The torch passed once more—from guest to host, from champion to champion.
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