The 2024 Shoprite LPGA Classic, presented by Acer, is gearing up to captivate golf enthusiasts from June 7-9, 2024, at the historic Seaview Golf Club in Galloway, New Jersey. With a purse of $1.75 million and a challenging par-71 course, this 54-hole event promises intense competition and unforgettable moments. After a tiring and unexpected week at Lancaster, several top LPGA favorites will be absent from the field; here are five names among them.

Nelly Korda

Yes! The World’s # 1 golfer is not competing in the ShopRite LPGA Classic. Nelly Korda has won six of the nine tournaments this year. Out of which, she won five back-to-back LPGA Tour events. But her tremendous form came to a halt during the 2024 US Women’s Open. During the first round of the highly anticipated tournament at the Lancaster Country Club, she faced a significant challenge.

As Korda approached the tee on the par 3-12th hole, she ended up dunking three shots into a water hazard, resulting in a septuple bogey. She ended her first day with a score of 10 over par. This unexpected setback highlighted the unpredictable and often harsh nature of mentally and physically challenging golf. Ultimately, the fan’s favorite failed to make the cut and could not enter the weekend showdown. In an interview after the second round, “I knew it was going to be a tough day,” admitted the golfer after recounting the plight of the first two days.

Lilia Vu

Lilia Vu is another name that will be missing from the event. Vu is struggling with a back injury. Last year, Vu suffered a back injury at the Mizuho America’s Open, which resulted in her withdrawing from the tournament and taking a month-long break from the sport. She had to bow out of the final round of the HSBC Women’s World Championship in February and also withdrew from the Blue Bay LPGA in China for the same reason.

“It’s been a little scary. I’ve definitely cried a lot on the range sometimes because my back just couldn’t hold up. … If I can stay healthy this week, I think I’ll be able to do what I need to do,” Lilia Vu said in the pre-tournament press conference at the 2024 Chevron Championship. She also admitted that she hasn’t been at her best this season. That was Vu’s third withdrawal this year due to injury.

Rose Zhang

Rose Zhang is a talented golfer with two LPGA Tour victories under her belt. Lately, she has been facing some health challenges that have affected her game. Unfortunately, she had to withdraw from the 2024 Mizuho Americas Open where she returned as the defending champion after just three holes due to intense intestinal pain. This was not the first time Zhang had dealt with health issues. Back in January, she opened up about a mysterious stomach problem that has been impacting her ability to digest food properly. “I would eat vegetables and be bloated, which is not necessarily too normal,” the 20-year-old said.

Despite her health struggles, Zhang remains determined to compete at the top. She also participated in the 2024 US Women’s Open but could not make it to the final rounds. However, her recent medical problems have raised doubts about her capacity to perform at her best. Golf enthusiasts are rooting for her recovery, as Zhang’s absence from the tournament adds an element of uncertainty to the competition.

Charley Hull

Charley Hull adds to the list of top picks who are missing the 2024 ShopRite LPGA Classic. The American is making waves off the course as well. She turned heads at Lancaster when she was spotted with a cigarette while signing autographs for fans. Dubbed as “female John Daly,” Hull is unfazed by what people think of her. In post-event pressers of the US Women’s Open, she spoke about being carefree, and not knowing what she might say next. It seems she likes to keep the element of surprise! 

Her smoking habits surprised many in the golf community, but per reports, she is smoking to let go of her vaping habit. Fans adore her dearly and often appreciate the off-the-course glimpses that she shows on Instagram. However, her absence from the Shoprite LPGA Classic leaves fans wondering about her next move. Will she return to the green with renewed focus, or will her off-course antics continue to overshadow her performance?

Minjee Lee

Another big name that is not participating is Minjee Lee. The 2024 US Women’s Open saw Minjee Lee contend for the title, leading the field for a significant portion of the final round. However, a series of challenges on the back nine, including shots into the water hazard, led to a disappointing finish for Lee, T-9. The same hole troubled everyone during the event. 

Despite the setback, Lee’s performance showcased her talent and resilience on the course. Additionally, Lee’s brother, Min Woo Lee, is also not playing at Muirfield this weekend. 

As the Shoprite LPGA Classic 2024 unfolds at Seaview Golf Club, the absence of these top LPGA favorites leaves a void in the field. However, the challenges and setbacks they faced served as anticipation for their return to competition, adding an element of unpredictability to the tournament’s outcome.