After 930 days without a win, Canada’s golden girl delivers

Brooke Henderson’s victory drought is officially over. The 27-year-old from Smiths Falls, Ontario, captured her second CPKC Women’s Open title on Sunday, shooting a clutch 4-under 67 to edge Australia’s Minjee Lee by a single stroke at Mississauga Golf and Country Club. The win marks Henderson’s first LPGA Tour victory since January 2023 – a span of more than two and a half years that had even the eternally optimistic Canadian questioning herself.

Pressure? What Pressure?

Playing in the final group alongside Lee, Henderson faced massive galleries that followed every shot around the river-valley course. But instead of wilting under the spotlight, Canada’s winningest professional golfer thrived. A spectacular eagle from a greenside bunker on the 17th hole – where she “knew she had something” before even stepping into the sand – provided the fireworks that sealed the deal. That’s the kind of shot that separates champions from also-rans.

The Numbers Tell the Story

This victory moved Henderson up to 26th on the LPGA Tour’s Race to CME Globe points list and 58th to projected 26th in world rankings. More importantly, it guarantees her spots in both the International Crown and the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship. The tournament itself raised a record $4.5 million for cardiac healthcare in Ontario, with Henderson serving as CPKC Ambassador throughout the event.

Dark Times in the Rearview Mirror

Henderson didn’t sugarcoat the struggle, admitting there were “some dark times, for sure” during her winless streak. But with her sister Brittany as caddie and father Dave as coach, the family support system never wavered. “I’ve been telling everybody for like a long time, it’s close, it’s close, it’s close,” Henderson said. Sometimes believing in yourself is the hardest part of the game.

Recognition Long Overdue

Canadian Golf Hall of Famer Lorie Kane, who witnessed both of Henderson’s Women’s Open victories, made a powerful point: “This is now 14 wins. The first 13, we haven’t given this kid enough credit for.” Kane’s right – Henderson has been carrying Canadian golf on her shoulders for years, and maybe it’s time we started appreciating greatness while it’s happening instead of waiting for the history books.

Home Sweet Home

Henderson becomes just the second Canadian in 52 years to win the national championship twice, joining Jocelyne Bourassa who accomplished the feat in 1973. Sometimes the stars align perfectly – hometown hero, packed galleries, a title sponsor she represents, and a charitable cause close to her heart. This wasn’t just a golf tournament; it was a moment that reminded us why sports matter.