Jeeno Thitikul’s Comeback Victory at Buick LPGA Shanghai
News Summary
Jeeno Thitikul secured a stunning comeback victory at the Buick LPGA Shanghai, clinching her second win of the 2025 LPGA season. Starting the final day four shots behind, Thitikul showcased her skills with seven birdies and an eagle, finishing with a remarkable score of 63. After a tense playoff against Minami Katsu, she triumphed on the fifth hole, marking a significant moment in her career after previously falling short in another playoff two years prior. Minjee Lee claimed third place as the competition remains fierce this season.
Jeeno Thitikul Shines Bright with Stunning Comeback Win at Buick LPGA Shanghai
It was an unforgettable weekend at the Buick LPGA Shanghai as Jeeno Thitikul pulled off a remarkable comeback, snagging her second victory of the 2025 LPGA season and becoming the tour’s first two-time winner this year. The drama unfolded on Sunday when Thitikul, who started the day four shots behind the leader, put on a show for the fans, finishing with a jaw-dropping score of 63. The final round featured an impressive lineup of seven birdies and a spectacular eagle, proving once again why she belongs at the top of the game.
Race Against Time
Thitikul’s journey to victory certainly had its twists and turns. Entering the final stretch of the tournament, she had a four-shot gap to bridge with only five holes left. But instead of buckling under the pressure, Thitikul soared above it. She showed everyone that she isn’t just a talented golfer—she’s a fighter. On the other hand, Minami Katsu, who held the overnight lead and started the day with a two-shot advantage, managed to extend her lead to four strokes after the 13th hole. However, she couldn’t hold onto it as the competition heated up.
The Thrills of Playoff Golf
As fate would have it, Katsu finished the day with a solid score of 65, setting her up for a potential win. She even had a chance at the final hole to clinch it, but the putt didn’t drop. This missed opportunity led to an exhilarating playoff situation, dragging the competitors into five tense holes of sudden death. Both players missed potential birdie chances, heightening the suspense before Thitikul finally secured her victory on the fifth playoff hole. It was nearly two years since Thitikul fell short in a nine-hole playoff against Celine Boutier at the LPGA Malaysia, making this win even sweeter for her.
Strong Contenders Take Their Shot
On the podium as well was Minjee Lee, who secured third place with a score of 19-under 269 after carding a final round of 68. Lee, who already has her third major title from the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in June, continues to show her prowess on the tour. Meanwhile, the fourth place was a three-way tie between Jenny Bae, Miyu Yamashita, and Somi Lee, each finishing at 17-under. This tournament proved once again that the competition is fierce. The Buick LPGA Shanghai was just one event in a series of five tournaments scheduled throughout Asia, with players looking to climb the ranks and secure their spots.
A Competitive Season
The LPGA Tour is impressively characterized by its parity this season. So far, there have been 26 different champions across 25 events, matching the previous record for the most unique winners in a single season. Fans of the game will recall that this record was first established in 1995 and has been revisited in 2018, 2022, and now in 2025. While a lot of buzz has surrounded last season’s standout Nelly Korda, who racked up an impressive seven wins, she has yet to find her footing in 2025.
Rising Temperatures and Rising Stars
The final round faced the players with challenging conditions, as temperatures soared into the mid-90s. It was an interesting twist considering the climate can significantly impact performances on the course. Earlier in the tournament, Katsu had wowed everyone with an 11-under-par 61, distinctly setting a score record at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club. After this thrilling show, the LPGA is set to move forward with more exciting events across South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan, keeping the spirit of competition alive.
As the dust settles on what has been an enthralling Buick LPGA Shanghai, fans can only wonder what other surprises this dynamic season will bring!
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