The Classic is back.
Shifting its focus from kitchenware to tech products like optical fiber and specialized glass, Corning has removed itself from the title of the long-running golf tournament in western New York with hopes a sleeker, newer version will appeal to a growing fanbase when it returns to the LPGA schedule on May 27-30.
“This is not your grandmother’s Corning,” said Lewis Steverson, vice chairman, executive vice president and chief legal and administrative officer at Corning. “We are at the epicenter of doing AI from an infrastructure standpoint.”
Promoted and operated by IMG, the event at Corning Country Club will be played for a $5 million purse — among the highest of non-major events.
It’s the latest edition to the 2027 LPGA schedule, after last month’s news of the inaugural Nanea Cup — a showcase in Hawaii that will bring a mix of top pros and collegians to the Big Island in March.
“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,” said LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler.
The LPGA Tour is heading back to Corning, New York! ⛳️
— LPGA (@LPGA) August 5, 2026
The Classic marks a new chapter next May 27-30, 2027, presented once again by @Corning, after the company backed the event for 31 years.
This time it comes with a $5 million purse, placing it among the Tour's premier… pic.twitter.com/AI9soAfnNl
“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,” he added.
The last LPGA tournament in Corning was played in May 2009 and won by Yani Tseng. The total purse was $1.5 million.
Annika Sorenstam, a 10-time major champion and winner of the tournament in 2004, called having Corning back as a title sponsor “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,” she added.