Jeeno Thitikul Closes an Exceptional Year with a Historic Triumph
Jeeno Thitikul capped off her best year in women’s golf with a resounding victory at the CME Group Tour Championship, securing a place in LPGA history. In addition to the victory, Thitikul set a new record with the lowest scoring average in the 75-year history of the circuit. Despite the apparent ease with which she dominated the tournament, Thitikul recalled the challenges she faced along the way. Two months earlier, she suffered a difficult moment at the Kroger Queen City Championship, and a wrist injury the week before the final tournament made her doubt her ability to compete.“At the beginning of the week, I was just thinking about being able to finish the four rounds of golf here, it was already more than I could ask for,” commented Thitikul. “But being here with the trophy on Sunday is more than I could really ask for.”
Jeeno Thitikul
Anannarukarn, in the previous group, reduced the difference to two strokes with five birdies in seven holes. However, Thitikul responded with birdies on holes 10 and 13, consolidating her lead. Thitikul, who finished with a total of 26 under par (262), joined Jin Young Ko as the only ones to win the CME Group Tour Championship consecutively. The victory also secured her the LPGA Player of the Year award. Korda, who was displaced by Thitikul from the top spot in the world ranking, experienced a difficult season. Korda, who started the day with a six-stroke deficit, finished in third place with a 68. Korda still has the Grant Thornton Invitational mixed-team event and the PNC Championship with her father next month.“I never dreamed of having that record,” Thitikul said. “And that I can have the lowest scoring average in my entire career is really incredible.”
Jeeno Thitikul
When describing her year, Korda described it as “a challenge”.
Nelly Korda
