The 2025 T-Mobile Match Play presented by MGM Rewards is set to be one of the most exciting events on the LPGA Tour calendar. Taking place from April 2 to April 6 at the prestigious Shadow Creek Golf Course in North Las Vegas, Nevada, this tournament combines the thrill of match play with the elegance of one of golf’s most exclusive venues. As part of the LPGA’s innovative schedule, this event offers a unique format that challenges players’ strategic and competitive skills.
Venue: Shadow Creek Golf Course
Shadow Creek is a masterpiece of golf course design, originally crafted by Tom Fazio. Known for its lush fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and pristine water features, the course provides a stunning backdrop for high-stakes competition. The par-72 layout stretches over 7,500 yards, demanding precision and creativity from players as they navigate its challenging greens and strategically placed hazards.
Tournament Format
The T-Mobile Match Play features a 64-player field divided into 16 groups of four. The format includes:
Group Stage: Each player competes in three round-robin matches within their group. The player with the best head-to-head record in each group advances to the knockout rounds. In the event of a tie, sudden-death stroke play determines the group winner.
Knockout Rounds: The top 16 players compete in a single-elimination bracket, with the Round of 16 and quarterfinals held on Saturday, followed by the semifinals and final on Sunday.
This format emphasizes head-to-head competition, rewarding players who can adapt their strategies to outwit their opponents.
Key Players to Watch
Nelly Korda: The defending champion and world No. 1, Korda is a dominant force in women’s golf. Her ability to handle pressure and excel in match play makes her a favorite to repeat her success.
Lydia Ko: The world No. 2 and reigning Race to the CME Globe champion, Ko brings consistency and finesse to the field. Her strategic approach to match play could give her an edge.
Atthaya Thitikul: The young Thai sensation has been in excellent form this season, with multiple top-10 finishes. Her aggressive style and fearless attitude make her a formidable opponent.
Hyo Joo Kim: Known for her precision and calm demeanor, Kim is a strong contender, especially on a course that rewards accuracy.
Leona Maguire: A match-play specialist, Maguire’s tenacity and ability to thrive under pressure make her a player to watch.
Storylines to Follow
The Battle for No. 1: With Nelly Korda and Lydia Ko both in the field, the race for the top spot in the Rolex Rankings adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Rising Stars: Players like Rose Zhang and Linn Grant are looking to make their mark on the LPGA Tour, and a strong performance at Shadow Creek could be a breakthrough moment.
Course Strategy: Shadow Creek’s challenging layout will test players’ ability to balance aggression with caution, particularly in the knockout rounds.
