Grace Kim of Australia triumphed at the Evian Championship on Sunday. For her effort, she clinched her first big-league crown in a thrilling extra-session tussle versus Jeeno Thitikul. Regardless of what happens in this cycle, Kim already accomplished a monumental shift with her upset win last year. Two years after she claimed that first LPGA victory in Hawaii. The event, held at Evian Resort Golf Club in France, showcased Kim’s exceptional skill and determination, particularly on the final hole.
During regulation play, Kim demonstrated her prowess by closing with a 4-under 67, which included a crucial eagle on the par-5 18th hole. Her record-breaking performance was enough for her to finish tied with Thitikul. This dramatic conclusion created a tie for the second spot and thus warranted a playoff. Thitikul moved to the top with a birdie on 17. Kim took advantage of the turn she needed to continue to stay in contention with her 12-foot eagle putt on 18.
In the playoff, both players went back to the 18th hole, where Kim finished the match with an eagle putt again. Thitikul had a shot of her own to win the title too but her birdie putt slid to the right. This nail-biting finish highlighted both the high stakes and competitive edge of the newly created championship.
English amateur Lottie Woad briefly held a share of the lead on the back nine. She capped off her week with a final-round 67 to take solo third, just one shot back of Kim and Thitikul. Woad gave an astounding, heartfelt performance. She had her eyes on being the first amateur winner of a major championship since Catherine Lacoste in 1967. Major champion Minjee Lee is only a stroke back of the leaders. This just goes to show how closely fought this year’s tournament is!
The 2025 Evian Championship will be a first in LPGA history. That was the 18th straight tournament to open the season with a different winner. This streak indicates a growing diversity of talent within the professional golf circuit, making it an exciting time for fans and players alike.
Grace Kim’s victory at the Evian Championship confirms her position as a young star on the rise in women’s golf. In addition to her individual accolades, she added her name to the short, impressive list of champions in major tournaments. Regardless of the round, her performance will be well remembered as she progresses towards a bright future down the LPGA Tour’s road.
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