STATELINE, Nev. — While every competitor arrives at the American Century Championship hoping to hoist the trophy on Sunday, several of this year’s contenders agree that the celebrity golf tournament is about much more than winning.

World Golf Hall of Fame member Annika Sörenstam, country music star Jake Owen and former NFL quarterback Tony Romo each said the tournament’s unique blend of competition and camaraderie is what keeps them returning to Edgewood Tahoe.

“We come here, and of course, I look at my résumé,” Sörenstam said. “But when you are here, it’s more about family and friends, and having a good time and playing the sport together. I’m excited to be here, playing with these guys.”

Sörenstam enters this year’s tournament among the favorites after finishing seventh last year and third in 2024. A victory would make her the first woman to win the American Century Championship.

Romo, meanwhile, is also considered one of the top contenders. The former NFL quarterback is a three-time winner (2018, 2019, 2022). Romo said he’s been dealign with a wrist injury in recent years, and joked his odds have fallen because he hasn’t played well. Still, he’s a top contender. 

“It feels more comfortable than it has in a long time,” he said.

Romo said one of the highlights of the event is the opportunity to compete alongside legendary athletes like Sörenstam while continuing to learn from them.

Country music artist Jake Owen is taking a lighter approach to the tournament.

“My dad was mad at me this morning because I bet money on myself to win,” Owen joked. “But I mean, my odds are like 1,800-to-1. I’m in on that.”

Owen finished third last season and ninth the year before, as he now tries to become the second non-athlete to win the event, joining Jack Wagner.

“After three years of playing, I’ve been able to figure out the course a little bit,” Owen said. “I kind of just use that whole carefree attitude to my benefit. I’m just happy to be here, and I’m going to do the best that I can.”

All three competitors echoed the same sentiment: while the pursuit of the championship is real, the friendships, atmosphere and opportunity to share the course with one another remain the biggest draw to Lake Tahoe.