Jeeno Thitikul Conquers LPGA Shanghai in Thrilling Playoff
Shanghai – Jeeno Thitikul staged an epic comeback to win the LPGA Shanghai, overcoming Minami Katsu in an exciting playoff and becoming the first player with two LPGA tournament wins this season. Thitikul, who started the day four strokes behind, demonstrated her composure and skill by forcing a playoff after an impressive performance in the final holes. The Thai golfer signed a card of 63 strokes, the best round of the day, with seven birdies and an eagle. Her performance, with a total of 24 under par (264 strokes), reduced the lead that seemed comfortable for Katsu, who was leading the competition. Katsu, from Japan, had extended his lead to four strokes after the 13th hole. However, Thitikul responded with birdies on the 14th, 15th, and 16th holes, and then, with a spectacular eagle on the 17th hole, managed to tie the score. Katsu, with a round of 65 strokes, could only respond with a birdie on the 17th hole. He had another birdie opportunity on the last hole, but luck was not on his side, leading to the playoff. After four playoff holes with pars, the tension remained. Katsu had two birdie opportunities to win, but narrowly missed both times. In the fifth playoff hole, Thitikul shone with an exceptional approach, leaving the ball three feet from the hole. Katsu, for his part, failed to get close to the green on his second shot. Katsu’s chip for birdie was unsuccessful, giving Thitikul the opportunity to secure the victory with a simple putt. This victory is significant for Thitikul, especially after losing in an epic playoff at the LPGA Malaysia almost two years ago. This is the second victory of the season for Thitikul, who had already won the Mizuho Americas Open in May. The golfer expressed her satisfaction after overcoming the challenge and proving her worth.Minjee Lee, who won her third major title at the Women’s PGA Championship in June, finished in third place with a total of 19 under par (269 strokes). Jenny Bae, from the United States, and Miyu Yamashita, from Japan, tied for fourth place with Somi Lee, from South Korea, with a total of 17 under par (271 strokes). Defending champion Ruoning Yin of China finished in 26th place. The Shanghai event is the first of five tournaments in Asia, followed by two weeks in South Korea, including the International Crown team event, and tournaments in Malaysia and Japan.What happened at the last event is still on my mind, but being able to prove myself again in this tournament is like a dream come true, and I carry no burden on my shoulders.
Jeeno Thitikul
