Canadian sensation Brooke Henderson captured her second CPKC Women’s Open title on Sunday, August 24, finishing with a total score of -15 (269 strokes). She edged out Australia’s Minjee Lee by a single stroke in an intense final round, regaining the winner’s circle after more than a two-year title drought; her last victory dating back to January 2023 at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions.
Henderson demonstrated poise and precision under pressure, closing the tournament with a 4-under 67 on the final day to clinch the title. The win not only bolstered her impressive career tally–now at 14 LPGA Tour titles, but also solidified her status as a national icon, sealing another victory in front of her passionate home crowd.
The Road to Victory
The final leaderboard showcased several stellar performances from around the globe. Lee delivered a solid 270 total to finish just one stroke behind Henderson. Close behind were Mao Saigo at -11 (273) and Akie Iwai, who also played with finesse, finishing at -10 (274).
Earlier in the tournament, Iwai had taken a commanding three‑stroke lead heading into the weekend, aiming for her second straight win. Though she couldn’t hold on to the top spot, her early charge added drama and momentum to the championship.
One of the tournament’s emotional highlights was the professional debut of Carla Bernat, the first Spanish woman to win the Augusta Women’s Amateur. Transitioning to the pro ranks at the CPKC Women’s Open, Bernat battled nerves early; carding bogeys on her first two holes and again at No. 18, but responded brilliantly with four consecutive birdies (holes 2-5). Despite a bogey on the 8th, she finished with yet another birdie at No. 9, ending her debut round at 70 strokes (-1).
Joining her under par was fellow Spaniard Carlota Ciganda, also finishing the day at -1. Bernat’s resolve and calm under debut pressure signaled a promising future for the rising star.
“Waiting for that 14th [LPGA] win feels like forever,” Henderson said. “To win it here makes just it so special. I had family and friends here and I just thank God for allowing me to be back in this position and allowing me to have the courage and the strength to perform here.”
The Canadian Women’s Open in Perspective
The CPKC Women’s Open, Canada’s national women’s golf championship, has a distinguished heritage dating back to its establishment in 1973. Over the years, it has gone through several title sponsors–from du Maurier to BMO and CN, and currently operates under the CPKC brand following the merger of Canadian Pacific with Kansas City Southern in 2023.
Held this year at Mississaugua Golf & Country Club in Ontario (par 71, length 6,661 yards), the tournament continues to attract top-tier talent and significant attention as a premier stop on the LPGA Tour.
Henderson’s victory at home comes at a pivotal point in her career. After a prolonged title drought, she’s once again on the ascent; her performance in Mississauga offering both validation and a springboard for the remainder of the season.
“I feel like Canada needed a win this year, so I’m really happy to bring them one,” Henderson said.
For Bernat, a successful professional launch may mark the beginning of an impactful LPGA journey. And for fans and analysts alike, the tournament underlined why the CPKC Women’s Open remains an essential fixture in women’s golf.
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