CHONBURI, Thailand — Jeeno Thitikul, the world’s premier golfer, resoundingly lived up to her top ranking by narrowly defeating Japan’s Chizzy Iwai with a single shot advantage, thereby securing her native LPGA Thailand tournament for the inaugural time.
Energized by enthusiastic local support, the prominent Thai player maintained her poise amid scorching temperatures and immense strain, recording a final round of 4-under-par 68, and concluding with a total of 24-under-par 264.
This win represented her eighth LPGA Tour championship and her inaugural success in her native land.
“I’d assess it as exceptional,” commented the 23-year-old. “While I know it lacks the grandeur of the majors, securing victory in my native land holds immense significance for me — at times surpassing even a major championship’s importance.”
Thitikul emerged as the third Thai champion of the tournament, succeeding Ariya Jutanugarn in 2021 and Patty Tavatanakit in 2024.
Her success became particularly meaningful with her mother attending personally, especially given the Thai had competed in the event eight times prior.
“My mom approached me after I completed the 18th hole, and she wept profusely,” Thitikul revealed. “I told her I at last achieved victory with you present. Her sentiments moved me deeply, and in turn, I too became tearful.”
World No.19 Iwai presented a formidable contention, momentarily achieving parity after sinking her second eagle of the day on the tenth par-5 hole.
Nevertheless, the Japanese golfer failed to secure any additional birdies and recorded a score of 66, placing as the second-best contestant on 23-under-par 265.
Korea’s Kim Hyo joo, ranked ninth globally, registered a 68 to secure the third position at 22-under-par 266, while her fellow countrywoman Lee Somi, the initial round frontrunner, placed fourth on 21-under-par 267.
Lydia Ko, previously world No.1, scored a 68 to share fifth place with Denmark’s Nanna Koerstz Madsen, who delivered the day’s finest round with a brilliant 63, as both concluded the event on 20-under-par 268.
Reigning titleholder Angel Yin recorded a 70 and finished tied for 48th position at 5-under 283.
The competition, situated approximately 125 kilometers (75 miles) to the east of Bangkok, represented the initial of three competitions in Asia over successive weeks, with subsequent stages taking place in Singapore and China during the designated initial Asian leg on the LPGA Tour.