Miranda Wang celebrates a big step in her young golf career. She beat out her victory on the course, clinching her first ever LPGA victory – the FM Championship. The national tournament concluded this past Sunday. Wang’s final round was solid if unspectacular, her 2-under 70 good enough for an ever-so-slight victory over Jeeno Thitikul. This victory marks her as the seventh LPGA rookie to win this season. It shines a light on an incredible season for rookies in the sport!
Wang took a three-shot lead into the final round after showing impressive form all week during the third and final event. Beginning on the 9th hole, she soon found herself tied for the lead after a blistering front nine of 31. Even from the final round’s opening questions, Wang stepped into difficulties that pushed her poise to the limits. She combined her approach misfires with a missed 3-foot birdie putt on the par-5 12th hole. She later missed a 7-foot birdie putt on the par-3 16th hole. Overcoming these frustrations, her optimism radiated more as the day went on.
The crucial turning point of the tournament came on that 17th hole. Unfazed by the moment, Wang took an incredible approach shot, burying it just past the hole and within six feet. She made the birdie, taking back the lead and moving her total to 20-under par.
On the 18th hole, Wang chose not to go for the green in regulation. He had gone in with a wedge shot and hit it to 25 feet. She easily two-putted for par, closing out the tournament at 20-under 268.
“On the back nine of the first round, I started hitting really good shots. I felt like this could be my week. I worked really hard and didn’t give up.” – Miranda Wang
Thitikul, who ended up one shot behind Wang, put together an impressive showing for the entire week. Even with her hard work, Thitikul admitted to several technical mistakes in her game.
“I don’t think I do anything wrong. Just technique-wise just some mistakes.” – Jeeno Thitikul
As momentous as Wang’s victory is for the 22-year-old, it reveals how competitive this year’s LPGA rookies have been. As she recalls all she’s done, Wang said she’s excited for what lies ahead in her professional golf career.
“I hope this is the first of many, and I’ll keep working hard. This is a dream come true.” – Miranda Wang
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