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The Amundi Evian Championship and Rolex

The Amundi Evian Championship: Celebrating 30 Years of Golf’s Only Major to be Staged in Continental Europe.

Published on July 4, 2024

A Major event

Situated between the peaceful shores of Lake Geneva and the majestic Alps, the Amundi Evian Championship is a landmark event in women's golf. Established in 1994, this prestigious tournament has grown to become one of the sport's five Major championships since 2013. The event has gained widespread acclaim and is celebrated for its rich history and contributions to women's golf.

Rolex has been a strong supporter of women's golf, serving as a Main Partner and Official Timekeeper of The Amundi Evian Championship since 2000. This partnership highlights the Swiss watchmaker's long-standing dedication to the sport, starting in 1980 when Rolex first partnered with the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA).

The Amundi Evian Championship - 2023 Championship

Three decades of excellence

Every July, The Amundi Evian Championship turns the Champions Course at the Evian Resort Golf Club into a contest for the world's top female golfers. This year's edition, taking place from July 11 to 14, commemorates the 30th anniversary of the first tournament, honoring three decades of excellence in women's golf.

The tournament's roster of champions reads like a who's who of women's golf, featuring legends such as Annika Sörenstam, who triumphed in 2000 and 2002, and Anna Nordqvist, who secured her victory in a thrilling playoff in 2017.

Nordqvist reminisces about her win: "Being European and winning a Major championship on European soil was very special. I would say that with all the history associated with The Amundi Evian Championship, the stunning views, amazing atmosphere, how well it is run and it being a tournament that I used to watch every summer growing up, it was an unforgettable moment. To have my name etched on the trophy is so special."

A stellar roster

Other notable winners include Suzann Pettersen (2013), Lydia Ko (2015), and Brooke Henderson (2022). Henderson's remarkable performance in 2022 made her the first LPGA player to start any Major with consecutive rounds of 64 and the first Canadian golfer, male or female, to win multiple Major titles.

Reflecting on the challenge of Major championships, Henderson noted, "It is truly exciting to be able to compete in the Major championships and go up against the best female players in the world, and on such incredible and differing venues. During those weeks, you have to be at your best mentally, physically, and even emotionally. You really do have to be in the right place on all fronts. There is always pressure when competing at Major championships as your career is ultimately defined by your performances and finishes during these tournaments. The challenge of playing impeccably, and to the best of your ability, is what makes those weeks so exciting."

Rolex and The Amundi Evian Championship - Annika Sörenstam - Lydia Ko

A worthy venue

The Champions Course, with a history dating back to 1904, underwent substantial renovations in 2013. These enhancements have further solidified its status as a top-tier venue for Major championships. The upgrades have increased the drama of the course and improved spectator viewing areas, greatly enhancing the prestige of the event.

Rolex and golf, a foundation of shared values

The Prize for a Better Tomorrow, presented by Rolex, has been awarded at The Amundi Evian Championship since 2019. The award celebrates initiatives that achieve significant societal impact. The first recipient was Lorena Ochoa, who was honored for her Lorena Ochoa Golf Foundation, which supports the education of underprivileged children in Mexico. The award, presented by fellow Rolex Testimonee Lindsey Vonn, highlights the commitment of individuals and organizations to charitable causes.

Rolex and The Amundi Evian Championship - The Amundi Evian Championship trophy

Rolex, Partner of women’s golf

Rolex's partnership with women's golf has spanned over 40 years and is one of the most successful relationships between a brand and sport. This enduring alliance has played a crucial role in developing the game worldwide, supporting elite players, legends, Major championships, professional tours, team competitions like the Solheim Cup, amateur tournaments, and international federations.

The Amundi Evian Championship, with its rich history, stunning location, and commitment to excellence, continues to be a pinnacle event in women's golf, embodying the spirit and tradition of the sport.

Rolex and The Amundi Evian Championship - 2023 Championship
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