THE WOODLANDS, TX – In a stunning development, world No. 1 golfer Paula Creamer has withdrawn from the 2025 Chevron Championship, the LPGA Tour’s first Major of the season, set for April 24-27 at The Club at Carlton Woods. The announcement, made days before the event, has left fans devastated, as Creamer cited a deeply personal and emotional reason for her decision, casting a shadow over the tournament where she triumphed in 2024.

Creamer, who made history last year by winning the Chevron Championship—her second Major and part of a record-tying five consecutive LPGA victories—shared the news in a heartfelt social media statement. “It breaks my heart to say this, but I’ve decided to withdraw from the Chevron Championship,” Creamer wrote. “After a difficult few months, I’m dealing with the loss of someone very close to me. I need to step away to process this grief and be with my family. Golf is my passion, but right now, I need to prioritize healing.”

While Creamer did not disclose specific details about the loss, sources close to the 26-year-old golfer indicate that recent weeks have been emotionally taxing, affecting her ability to prepare for the demands of a Major. Her team emphasized that the decision prioritizes her mental and emotional well-being, highlighting the toll personal tragedy can take on even the sport’s brightest stars.

The news has reverberated through the golfing community, with fans expressing their sorrow on platforms like X. “Paula’s my hero, and this breaks my heart,” one fan posted. “She’s given us so much joy, and now she’s hurting. Sending all my love.” Another wrote, “The Chevron won’t be the same without Paula. Praying for her and her family.” Creamer’s absence is especially poignant given her historic 2024 season, where she matched Nancy Lopez (1978) and Annika Sörenstam (2004-05) with five straight wins, solidifying her as a generational talent.

Creamer’s withdrawal marks the second time in less than a year that she’s stepped back from competition. In October 2024, she pulled out of two LPGA events in Asia due to a minor neck injury sustained during practice. However, this latest announcement carries a heavier weight, as Creamer has rarely spoken publicly about personal struggles, preferring to let her clubs do the talking. Her 2024 Chevron victory, where she outlasted Maja Stark by two strokes and celebrated with a cannonball into the lake, remains a fan favorite moment, with many hoping to see her defend her title.

Fellow players have rallied around Creamer, offering support during this challenging time. Lydia Ko, the 2024 Olympic gold medalist and 2016 Chevron champion, said, “Paula’s strength on and off the course is inspiring. We’re all here for her, and I know she’ll come back even stronger when she’s ready.” Brooke Henderson, who tied for third at last year’s Chevron, added, “The game misses Paula, but family comes first. Sending her all my love.”

The Chevron Championship will proceed with a strong field, including stars like Lilia Vu, Jin Young Ko, and rising talent Lauren Coughlin, but Creamer’s absence leaves a void. The tournament, known for its tradition of winners leaping into the lake by the 18th green, will feel bittersweet without the defending champion, whose infectious smile and clutch performances have defined recent editions.

Creamer’s team has not announced when she plans to return to competition, though she hinted at taking things “one day at a time.” For now, the golf world waits with bated breath, respecting her need for space while mourning the absence of its biggest star. As one fan poignantly posted, “Paula, you’ve given us everything. Now take all the time you need. We’ll be here when you’re back.”