Jeeno Thitikul Dominates CME Group Tour Championship with a Solid Lead
Thai golfer Jeeno Thitikul has demonstrated her supremacy at the CME Group Tour Championship, solidifying her position with an impressive performance that places her at the top of the tournament. Thitikul made nine birdies for the second consecutive day, achieving a 64 (-8) which gives her a considerable six-stroke lead heading into the final round. Thitikul, currently the world number one in women’s golf, is one step away from obtaining all the LPGA Tour awards, in addition to the coveted $4 million check for the winner. The player has practically secured the LPGA Player of the Year award and the Vare Trophy for the lowest scoring average, and could set a new LPGA record depending on her performance in the final round. Nelly Korda, with a round of 65, failed to get close to the leader, finishing six strokes behind. Pajaree Anannarukarn, also from Thailand, matched Korda’s result with a 65, demonstrating her skill on the course. Thitikul accumulates a total of 22 under par (196), surpassing her own mark from the previous year, where she won with 22 under par. The golfer has made it clear that her work is not yet finished.After a bogey on the first hole, Thitikul reacted with four birdies in five holes, regaining her momentum. Then, she strung together four consecutive birdies in the second half of the course, solidifying her control over the tournament. The final pairing will be made up of the two best players in the world, but the way Thitikul has played this week suggests a clear dominance.Trying to make birdies and birdies and birdies.
Jeeno Thitikul
Thitikul has achieved 24 birdies in the 54 holes played this week, with only five missed fairways and six missed greens in the final round. Korda, with a six-stroke deficit, plans to maintain her focus. “You’re competing hard and trying to win, but you also have to avoid getting ahead of yourself and play the game,” she commented. Anannarukarn, the last player to qualify for the tournament, has made the most of her opportunity, achieving an eagle on the sixth hole.I just tried to do the same thing. Trying to go for the fairway, trying to find the best we can to get close to the pin and then make the putt. Simple strategy.
Jeeno Thitikul
Sei Young Kim, who played in the final group with Thitikul, settled for a 68, finishing seven strokes behind. Gaby López from Mexico achieved the best round of the week, with a 62. Thitikul has the opportunity to join Jin Young Ko as the only consecutive winners of the CME Group Tour Championship.Pretty cool. I came into this week with a good opportunity and I’m very happy with my game. It’s incredible to see the results going in the right direction.
Pajaree Anannarukarn
