The LPGA Tour today announced the return of The Classic to Corning, N.Y., marking the tournament’s first appearance in Western New York since 2009. Presented by 

The Classic marks a new chapter for one of the most beloved tournaments in LPGA history, reconnecting Corning, the Finger Lakes region, and the world’s best players. Corning served as presenting sponsor of the original tournament for 31 years, and the company’s renewed commitment comes as it celebrates its 175th anniversary in 2026.

Lewis Steverson, Vice Chairman, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal & Administrative Officer at Corning, said: “As we celebrate Corning’s 175th anniversary this year, we mark both a new growth era for the company and a new era of The Classic. We’re proud to renew a relationship that runs deep across our company and this region.  Together with our employees, local leaders, the Corning Country Club, and the LPGA Tour, we look forward to welcoming the world’s best players back to Corning for an event that reflects the innovation, excellence, and unmistakable spirit that have defined Corning for generations.”

LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler added: “The return of The Classic brings together the LPGA’s history and its future. As we continue shaping the next chapter of our Tour, we’re building on the qualities that have defined the LPGA for decades—incredible championships, committed partners, passionate communities and unforgettable experiences for our athletes. I’ve been blown away by the Corning team’s thoughtfulness and commitment to returning this event to the Tour, with players and community at the heart of their plans and ambitions. All the legends I’ve spoken to remember this event so fondly, and we can’t wait to create a new generation of memories together in Corning.”

Annika Sorenstam, a 10-time major champion and winner of the tournament in 2004, said: “This is fantastic news for the players and the Corning community. Having a company with 175 years of history, innovation, and local commitment return to the LPGA family of title sponsors is a huge win for players and fans alike. Community support was always at the heart of what made this tournament so enjoyable to play, so I know that the latest generation of players are going to love the event just as much as we all did.”

IMG will serve as the tournament’s promoter and deliver all operational aspects of the event, with Ed McEnroe, Senior Vice President, IMG, concluding: “The return of The Classic brings back an event that holds a special place in LPGA history. Corning’s passion and commitment to creating exceptional experiences and meaningful impact for players, employees, fans and the community has been inspiring from the start. Together with Corning, the LPGA and the local community, we look forward to honoring The Classic’s incredible legacy while building an exciting new chapter for generations to come.”

The last LPGA tournament in Corning was played in May 2009 and won by Yani Tseng. The total purse was $1.5 Million.

I was so happy to see this today! That tour brought so much business and so many people to the area and was a huge loss when they left.

I'm really starting to see things happening in our area that is starting to give me hope.