LPGA Founders Cup: Weekend Storylines to Follow

MENLO PARK, Ca. — If you haven't tapped into the world of women's golf and the LPGA yet, now is the time.

For the first time in the Tour's history, all of its round will be broadcasted live, and things are heating up in a big way at the Fortinet Founders Cup just outside of San Francisco. Founders is the first full-field event of 2026 and there's plenty of things to look out for—so let's break 'em down.

RELATED: A Beginner Viewer's Guide to Women's Golf in 2026

The Rookies

The stacked 144-player field that features seven of the top-10 players in the world, is also comprised of 25, 2026 LPGA rookies making their Founders debut.

One of the latest young stars coming up the pipeline is Helen Briem, who pieced together an incredible 5-under round on Friday. Bookmark, circle, and highlight the German's name because she has an insane amount of potential. The Q-School medalist had a bit of a slow start, carding an opening round 75, but rallied back making seven birdies during her second round to move into the top-30 heading into the weekend.

There's also Bay Area queen and everyone's new favorite golfer—Natasha Oon—who made the cut for her very first LPGA start with an...insane (to put it lightly) Friday round scorecard.

RELATED: Five 2026 LPGA Rookies We're Keeping an Early Eye On

Jeeno and Nelly make a surge

Two familiar and fan-favorite faces made massive surges during Friday's round. The top-two players in the world, Jeeno Thitikul and Nelly Korda moved into the top-5 after firing rounds of 6 and 4-under par, respectively.

Both have already won this season—will one of them be able to add another mark to the winners column? For Korda, her 17th title will move her even closer to earning Hall of Fame status.

RELATED: Nelly Korda is Insanely Close to Joining This Elite Group of Golfers

The Forecast

Believe it or not, but The Bay area was hot as hell this week.

Temps shot up to nearly 90 degrees this week, further adding to the difficulty of Sharon Heights. But fear not, if you're local to the SF area and are thinking of heading to the tournament this weekend, things will cool down to more usual, milder weather.

Remember folks, hydrate always.

The Broadcast

And for those of you who can't make it out to watch the Founders Cup action IRL, fear not! The broadcast coverage, hitting the primetime spot from 6-9pm EST, got some major upgrades in the off season.

RELATED: How to Watch LPGA Founders Cup

I'm talking drones, twice as many cameras, more shot-tracing, and enhanced player graphics to boost the storytelling component that we all love so much. I dish more on the TV coverage on Skratch socials, so be sure to tap in there as well.

Happy viewing, golf fans!

LPGA Weekend Watch Guide

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