The 2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions concluded with a thrilling finish, as A Lim Kim and Joe Pavelski emerged victorious in their respective divisions. Kim, a 29-year-old South Korean golfer, secured her third LPGA Tour title and second wire-to-wire win in her last 10 tournaments. Meanwhile, Pavelski, a recently retired NHL All-Star, claimed his first celebrity division title in his first appearance at the event.
Kim's victory was a testament to her consistency and dominance on the LPGA Tour. She finished the first round at 7-under 65 and never relinquished her position atop the leaderboard throughout the tournament. Her final round score of 5-under 67 was highlighted by long birdie putts on the 16th and 18th holes at the renowned Lake Nona Golf & Country Club. This win demonstrates her ability to maintain her composure under pressure and her commitment to improving her game.
Pavelski's victory in the celebrity division was a remarkable achievement, considering he had only recently retired from the NHL after 18 seasons. His impressive performance throughout the week, which included 16 birdies and an eagle on the par-5 15th hole, showcased his ability to adapt to a new challenge and compete at a high level. Pavelski's win highlights the value of celebrity participation in LPGA Tour events, as it can attract new fans, increase engagement, and generate media attention.
The Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions is one of golf's most unique events, combining professional sports and celebrity participation to kick off the LPGA Tour season. This year's event featured 32 LPGA Tour winners alongside 51 of the biggest stars from the worlds of sports, entertainment, and music. The tournament welcomed LPGA Tour champions competing for a $2 million purse in 72 holes of stroke play with no cut, while celebrity participants vied for a share of $500,000 using a modified Stableford format.
In addition to world-class competition, the event featured exclusive entertainment and networking opportunities for attendees and sponsors. Highlights included a private three-night concert series headlined by country music superstar Luke Bryan and iconic rock bands Chicago and 3 Doors Down, delivering unforgettable experiences for HGV members and guests.
HGV also continued its commitment to community impact through its corporate social responsibility program, HGV Serves, which made a $100,000 donation to the ANNIKA Foundation to expand opportunities for female golfers at all levels. For the third consecutive year, youth from Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida were invited to participate in behind-the-scenes experiences to explore potential careers in sports and event management.
Off the course, HGV hosted its annual Women's Leadership Conference, which featured two-time FIFA Women's World Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Brandi Chastain. She was joined by Golf Channel and NBC Sports reporter and Miss America 2015 Kira Dixon. Together, they shared valuable insights on empowering women leaders, creating an impactful and inspiring discussion for attendees.
In conclusion, A Lim Kim and Joe Pavelski's victories at the 2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions highlight the exceptional talent and dedication of LPGA Tour professionals and the value of celebrity participation in LPGA Tour events. The event's unique format, exclusive entertainment, and commitment to community impact make it a standout event on the LPGA Tour calendar. As the LPGA Tour continues to grow and evolve, events like the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions will remain an essential component of its success.
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