And what a year it was! Whether it was dealing with uncertain weather or witnessing remarkable performances, the 2024 season had it all. As the season is close to winding down, it is left with the last two championships before the final CME Group Tour Championship. Now, the horizon waits for the highly anticipated Lotte Championship, which will tee off on November 6, Wednesday.

The tournament is scheduled at Hoakalei Country Club, with 120 players competing for a $3 million purse. Apart from this staggering prize money, the golfers will also be fighting for CME points to position themselves to win the year’s biggest awards. 

While some notable names like Nelly Korda will remain absent from the greens this weekend, fans can look forward to other top players who will be gracing the course, including the previous tournament veterans. Who among the 120 are the top picks? Let us find out. 

Jin Young Ko

The former No. 1 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings is gearing up to show her impressive swings on the course of Oahu. She has had six top 10 and ten top 25 finishes this year, Ko poses as a tough competitor in the Lotte Championship. Speaking of which, her recent performance at the TOTO Japan Classic was nothing short of spectacular, as she shot a 7-under 65 in the first round—her lowest score of the season.

While she didn’t take home the trophy, that performance was a clear sign that she’s returning to the form that has defined her career and helped her win 15 times in her career. This time, as Ko returns to the Lotte Championship for the first time since 2019, when she tied for 17th, she might just turn her near misses into victory.

Jasmine Suwnnpura

This year marked many remarkable performances, with Jasmine Suwannapura’s standing out. The 31-year-old golfer recently clinched trophy at the 2024 Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G. In a thrilling finish, she eagled the par-5 18th hole to tie for the lead and then sank the winning eagle putt on the second playoff hole. Impressive, right?

But while her season has been filled with remarkable performances including 4 top 10s, not every tournament was a highlight. For instance, she struggled at the Maybank Championship, finishing tied for 46th at 6 under par. Despite that setback, her impressive play throughout the year suggests a breakthrough return is just around the corner.

Ayaka Furue

Talking of impressive performances, how can we not mention Ayaka Furue? The 24-year-old Japanese professional golfer had a notable performance in 2024, winning her first major championship at the Amundi Evian Championship. Her resume this year also includes appreciable, 11 top 10s, and 16 top 25s.

As for her recent performance in the Toto Japan Classic, she gave a thrilling performance, finishing at T10 with 11 under par. What’s really cool is her strong iron play and accuracy; those skills are a big part of what’s making her one of the rising stars on the LPGA Tour! ​

Grace Kim

Grace Kim is back on the course at the Lotte Championship, ready to see if she can make it two wins in a row. The big question is: can she do it again? Only time will tell. As for her 2024, she had a standout year marked by several impressive performances. She turned heads on the LPGA Tour with standout performances including 3 top 10s and 8 top 25 finishes. At the Meijer LPGA Classic, she finished 2nd with 16 under par, thanks to sharp rounds of 68, 65, 66 and 73.

Her ability to rack up birdies proves her skill in making crucial shots under pressure. It seems like this rising star has a lot of potential and a promising career ahead. Given her familiarity with the Lotte Championship layout, this might just be the boost she needs to chase that second title.

Brooke Henderson

If familiarity gives an edge, then Brooke Henderson is the name to watch. The two-time LOTTE Championship winner is making her return, aiming for a third victory. Back in 2018 and 2019, Henderson claimed the titles in style, winning both by a four-stroke margin. Now, she’s back in Hawaii, hoping to end her season style. After all, she hasn’t finished a season winless since 2020 and she would not want to break the streak. Henderson comes into Hawaii fresh off a T61 finish at the rain-shortened TOTO Japan Classic, looking to let the Hawaiian vibes bring out her winning form.

Besides these standout players, the course will also see 2022 champion Hyo Joo Kim back in action. Joining them are 21 LPGA Tour rookies, with big names like Olympic silver medalist Mone Inami and Hawaii native Malia Nam. So, who are you rooting for at this year’s championship? Drop your thoughts in the comments!