Canadian golfing sensation Brooke Henderson is gearing up to make a triumphant return to her home turf for the CPKC Women’s Open in Edmonton, taking place from August 19 to 23. This highly anticipated event comes on the heels of her recent engagement and a strong showing this season, solidifying her status as one of the most formidable players on the LPGA Tour.
A New Chapter: Engagement and Personal Life
Last month, Henderson enjoyed a brief respite from the LPGA circuit, retreating to her Florida residence where she was joined by her fiancé, Ricky Castro. The couple’s romance blossomed in March 2025 on a golf course, and their bond has grown ever since, rooted in shared faith and interests. Castro, a minor league baseball pitcher for the Minnesota Twins, proposed to Henderson on July 14, just after they shared a reading by a serene lakeside.
“He did everything right,” Henderson remarked, reflecting on the surprise proposal. “I wasn’t expecting it. We talked for a minute after we read together, and then I noticed a guy with a camera nearby. That’s when Ricky got down on one knee, and it was easy to say yes.”
With her engagement adding joy to her life, Henderson is not just a star on the golf course but also embracing her new role as an aunt, as her sister Brittany recently welcomed her first child.
Dominating the Course: Henderson’s Season Highlights
At just 28 years old, Henderson has already etched her name in Canadian sports history, boasting 14 LPGA titles since turning professional at 17. As she heads into the CPKC Women’s Open, her career earnings have soared to nearly $17 million. The current season has seen her participating in 14 events, with three top-10 finishes in major championships, and she stands ninth in the Player of the Year rankings.
One of her standout performances occurred at the Amundi Evian Championship in France last month, where she finished second after a thrilling playoff against Haeran Ryu. Henderson made a remarkable comeback, overcoming a seven-shot deficit in the final round, which included three eagles and a hole-in-one.
“It was a really fun week for me,” she shared. “I just tried to make something happen, and getting into a playoff was a dream scenario. While it wasn’t ideal to lose, being in contention was exhilarating.”
Adjusting to New Dynamics: Caddie Change and Focus
This season has also brought significant changes for Henderson, particularly with her long-time caddie, sister Brittany, on maternity leave. Turning to her cousin Ryan for support, she has navigated this transition and found it to be an enriching experience.
“It was a huge adjustment,” Henderson admitted. “My sister is my best friend, and travelling together was a dream come true. But now, I’m excited to be an aunt and have found a new rhythm with Ryan on the bag.”
Despite the challenges, Henderson remains optimistic about her game. “I’ve felt my game has been close to where I want it to be, but it hasn’t always aligned. Golf is unpredictable, and staying positive is essential,” she explained. “I feel like I’m trending in the right direction, and it’s rewarding to see patience paying off.”
Preparing for the CPKC Women’s Open
As the defending champion of the CPKC Women’s Open, Henderson is poised to attract a significant following in Edmonton, where she is widely celebrated. Known for her athletic prowess, she averages an impressive 268 yards off the tee and has shown remarkable consistency throughout her career, with only 30 missed cuts in 261 LPGA tournaments.
The competition will be fierce, with the field featuring world No. 1 Nelly Korda and three-time CPKC champion Lydia Ko. Henderson’s performance will undoubtedly be closely watched, as fans eagerly anticipate her return to the course.
Why it Matters
Brooke Henderson’s journey is not just about her golf achievements; it reflects the intersection of personal growth and professional aspirations. As she prepares to defend her title at the CPKC Women’s Open, her story resonates with many—highlighting the importance of balance between personal milestones and career ambitions. With her recent engagement and the joy of family life, Henderson serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that success in sport can coexist with personal happiness, making her one of Canada’s most beloved athletes.
