World number one Nelly Korda has been ruled ineligible for the LPGA's Vare Trophy, awarded annually to the player with the lowest scoring average, due to an eligibility technicality. The development was reported on November 3, 2026, ending Korda's pursuit of the prestigious award for the season.
The Vare Trophy requires players to complete a minimum number of official LPGA rounds to qualify. Korda, who has dominated women's golf with multiple major championships and consistent top finishes, fell short of the threshold despite posting one of the tour's lowest scoring averages. The specific nature of the eligibility issue was not detailed in initial reports.
Korda's 2026 season included victories at major championships and regular top-ten finishes, maintaining a scoring average that would have led the tour had she met the round requirement. The LPGA's Vare Trophy, named after Glenna Collett-Vare, has been awarded since 1953 and recognizes season-long scoring excellence.
