In a thrilling conclusion to the LPGA Thailand tournament, world No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul triumphed in her home country, claiming victory for the first time. The Thai golfer edged Japan’s Chizzy Iwai by just one stroke, finishing with a remarkable 24-under-par 264. Thitikul’s performance was stellar, highlighted by a closing 4-under-par 68 amidst high pressure and sweltering conditions.
Historic Win
This achievement marks Thitikul’s eighth LPGA Tour title, but it holds special significance as her first victory on home soil. The 23-year-old expressed her joy, stating, “Winning in my home country means so much to me — sometimes even more than a major.” Thitikul is now the third Thai champion of this event, following in the footsteps of Ariya Jutanugarn and Patty Tavatanakit.
Emotional Moments
Thitikul’s win was deeply emotional, especially with her mother present in the gallery. After the final round, her mother became teary-eyed, reinforcing the personal significance of the victory. “I finally won in front of you,” Thitikul recalled telling her mother, adding to the emotional weight of the occasion.
Final Standings
The final standings revealed the intensity of the competition:
- 1st Place: Jeeno Thitikul (Thailand) – 24-under-par 264
- 2nd Place: Chizzy Iwai (Japan) – 23-under-par 265
- 3rd Place: Kim Hyo-joo (South Korea) – 22-under-par 266
- 4th Place: Lee Somi (South Korea) – 21-under-par 267
- 5th Place: Lydia Ko (New Zealand) and Nanna Koerstz Madsen (Denmark) – 20-under-par 268
Chizzy Iwai made a strong bid for the title, briefly tying for the lead after her second eagle of the day on the par-5 tenth hole. However, she could not secure additional birdies and recorded a final score of 66.
Upcoming Events
The LPGA Thailand event took place about 125 kilometers east of Bangkok. This tournament kicks off a series of three consecutive LPGA events in Asia, with subsequent stops planned in Singapore and China. As the tour moves into this so-called early Asian swing, players are eager to build on their performances in Thailand.
