World No.1 Jeeno Thitikul delivered another masterclass on the LPGA Tour, capturing her second consecutive championship after outplaying fellow Thai star Pajaree Anannarukarn to secure the largest prize purse in women’s golf — US$4 million (RM16 million).
Competing at Tiburón Golf Club in Naples, Florida, Jeeno carded a brilliant four-under 68 to complete 72 holes at 26-under 262, finishing four strokes clear of Pajaree in the early hours today.
Her successful title defence places her in elite company — only South Korean superstar Ko Jin-young had previously won this tournament back-to-back, in 2020 and 2021.
The victory marks Jeeno’s seventh career LPGA title, and her third of the season, adding to her wins at the Mizuho Americas Open in May and in Shanghai last month.
With four runner-up finishes and 14 top-10 results, Jeeno cemented her status as the most consistent player on the LPGA Tour this year.
What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the fact that she entered the tournament unsure of her physical condition after suffering a wrist injury just a week earlier.
“I love this golf course,” Jeeno said with a smile.
“Playing here in the final event of the year gives me such good energy.”
“Last week in Dallas I was worried I might not be able to play,” she admitted.
“But maybe that helped me — I didn’t overthink or put too much pressure on myself. I just felt, ‘I can play,’ and that was enough.”
Runner-up Pajaree Anannarukarn, who barely made the cut earlier in the week, remained upbeat after delivering one of her best performances of the season.
“It was great to be in contention and try to chase Jeeno,” Pajaree said.
“She played incredibly well, and I’m happy with my finish. This week has been amazing.”
Jeeno and Pajaree’s one-two finish underscores the strength of Thai women’s golf on the global stage, capping off a year dominated by Asian excellence in the LPGA Tour.
Credit Photo : LPGA
