Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul showed just how remarkable her golf is in the Mizuho Americas Open on Thursday. He notched his first stellar scorecard, a bogey-free 66 to boot. His final round came in the form of an impressive 8-under 64, requiring just 26 putts and including eight birdies. This 64 is a new low-water mark for him, and his 11th career round of 64 or lower over the last four seasons. It’s a testament to his consistency and skill on the course!
Thitikul’s brilliant round today was after a difficult start to the season. At that Chevron Championship, the first major of the LPGA season, he missed the cut after opening with 71-75. He looked so fresh at Liberty National, where he warmed up in crisp, morning conditions with next to no wind. His confidence shone through, as did his professional shot selection. On the par-3 17th, he stuck a short iron to inside of 5 feet, and on the closing par-3 18th, he hit a perfect tee ball that left him only 3 feet for a birdie.
“I’ve been back home and I putt a lot, a ton,” Thitikul shared, reflecting on his preparation leading up to this tournament. Last week he put everything he had into becoming a better putter. He argues that this obsession was the biggest factor behind his success.
Coming into the new year, Thitikul had a lot to defend after enjoying historic success on the LPGA Tour last season. Looking to get back on track, he stressed a need to be more methodical going ahead. “I just going to putt less and think less. That’s pretty much I want to do,” he stated, expressing his desire to simplify his game while maintaining focus.
Thitikul’s decisive performance, clinching him two shots above the competition, was a testament to her poise, proving she flourishes under pressure. A combination of his infectious optimism and technical merit proved the perfect odds for successfully hucking the entire course on his bike. He knew how important it would be to continue to follow his playbook from last year. This game plan meant focusing on one shot at a time and not allowing himself to get too far in front.
“We’re here, hit it good, and also making the putts.” – Jeeno Thitikul
For Thitikul, her disciplined training has clearly worked wonders. 9, her polished performance on the course is a good indication that she could make serious noise throughout the rest of the tournament. As he proves and builds upon this initial momentum, golf fans will be closely observing his on-course progress.
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