Fortinet Founders Cup: Thitikul Contends, Korda Headlines & Prize Money Breakdown | LPGA 2026
MENLO PARK, Calif. – Jeeno Thitikul is making a compelling case for continued dominance in women’s golf. The world No. 1 carded a 6-under-par 66 in the second round of the Fortinet Founders Cup on , matching the low round of the day and surging into contention at Sharon Heights.
Thitikul’s performance comes on the heels of a significant victory at the Honda LPGA Thailand, a win she described as carrying the weight of a major championship given her history with the event as a fan. That triumph, she believes, has equipped her with a crucial mental edge.
“You know, we are human and then we have a lot of thoughts in a day, in a moment, in like just a second,” Thitikul explained. “And definitely 80 percent is a negative thought for just human beings. And then obviously playing in a nervous situation, excitement situations, you’re just like, oh, what is my ball going to do? What’s the worst case going to be like? It’s a lot of thoughts going. But as you get it there, as you calm yourself and as you spot just only one shot that can release in your mind, it’s just like, yeah, I’m beating myself already.”
The Fortinet Founders Cup marks only the second time this season that the top two players in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings are competing in the same tournament. Nelly Korda, currently ranked No. 2, won the season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions before taking a six-week break from competition. Korda’s return adds another layer of intrigue to the event.
Thitikul’s recent success isn’t solely attributable to on-course performance. The 23-year-old has actively sought to improve her mental game through reading, a habit she admits she previously disliked. She has revisited “Good Vibes, Good Life: How Self-Love is the Key to Unlocking Your Greatness” twice, emphasizing a deliberate and thoughtful approach to absorbing the material.
“Once I failed a lot and (started) learning about myself,” Thitikul said, “then I start reading books, start reading, like, the mentality side.” This focus on self-awareness and mental fortitude appears to be paying dividends, allowing her to navigate the pressures of high-level competition with greater composure.
The field at Sharon Heights is a testament to the strength of the LPGA Tour. Korda and Thitikul were highlighted as headliners prior to the tournament, signaling the event’s importance as the first full-field competition of the season. The presence of these top players underscores the competitive depth within the tour.
While specific details regarding the prize money payout have been released, they highlight the financial stakes involved for the competitors. The Fortinet Founders Cup offers a significant purse, adding to the incentive for players to perform at their best.
The tournament is being held at Sharon Heights, a venue that has undergone recent changes to enhance the player and spectator experience. The course provides a challenging test for the world’s best golfers, demanding precision and strategic play.
Thitikul’s strong showing at the Fortinet Founders Cup positions her as a clear contender for the title. Her ability to overcome negative self-talk, coupled with her dedication to mental preparation, makes her a formidable opponent. Whether she can maintain this momentum and secure her first major championship remains to be seen, but her current form suggests she is well-equipped to develop a serious run.
Nelly Korda’s return after a six-week hiatus will undoubtedly be closely watched. Her victory at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions demonstrated her ability to perform under pressure, and her presence in the field adds another dimension to the competition. The dynamic between the world’s top two players will be a key storyline as the tournament progresses.
The Fortinet Founders Cup is not just a competition for individual glory; it also represents an opportunity for players to build momentum and gain valuable experience as the LPGA season unfolds. The event’s significance as the first full-field tournament of the year makes it a crucial stepping stone for players aiming for success in the majors and the Race to the CME Group Championship.