Minjee Lee Withdraws from Maybank Championship
The world number 17 opts out of the Malaysian tournament to reset amid a challenging 2026 season.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Golf
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Minjee Lee has officially withdrawn from the Maybank Championship in Malaysia, marking a major shift in her schedule as she struggles with recent form. This decision follows a difficult run where she has missed six consecutive cuts and failed to finish better than a tie for 28th in her last 14 outings.
Why it matters
Lee is currently ranked 78th in the LPGA season points race, putting her at significant risk of missing the season-ending Tour Championship in Naples. Only the top 60 players in the points standings qualify for the elite field, which carries an $11 million purse.
Lee holds the 17th position in the world golf rankings, yet her performance since April includes 14 tournaments without a finish higher than 28th. She currently sits at 78th in the LPGA season points race.
The players
Minjee Lee
She is a professional golfer who is currently ranked 17th in the world rankings.
Min Woo Lee
He is a professional golfer who confirmed his sister's withdrawal and is set to compete in the 2026 Australian Open and PGA Championships.
The details
In an attempt to reclaim her competitive edge and pursue golf perfection, Lee has recently implemented swing adjustments and changed both her equipment sponsors and clubs. Her brother, Min Woo Lee, confirmed the withdrawal on October 28, 2026, as she seeks a professional reset.
Timeline
April 2026 marked the start of Lee's recent decline in tournament results.
October 28, 2026, is when Min Woo Lee confirmed his sister's withdrawal from the event.
November 19-22, 2026, is the scheduled window for the LPGA Tour Championship in Naples.
Season Trajectory
Lee's struggle to secure a spot in the Tour Championship highlights the high-stakes environment of the LPGA's annual points race. Missing this event would mark a significant departure from her usual status as a contender for major titles and a career grand slam.
Lee's withdrawal effectively ends her participation in the current Malaysian tournament, moving her further down the season points list. Fantasy golf participants and tour followers should note that her absence makes her qualification for the $11 million Tour Championship mathematically unlikely.
The takeaway
Even elite athletes at the top of the world rankings must occasionally step back from competition to overhaul their mechanics and equipment. A strategic break can be necessary when the pursuit of golf perfection results in a prolonged period of missed cuts and declining performance.
Further reading
For more on the current standing of professional athletes, visit the Golf section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Perth Now.
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