Jeeno Thitikul Makes History with $4 Million Win at CME Group Tour Championship
It was a Sunday to remember for Jeeno Thitikul, the 21-year-old golf sensation from Thailand, who delivered a jaw-dropping performance to claim the biggest prize in women’s golf history. Down by two strokes with just two holes to play, Thitikul knew she needed something extraordinary to secure the win. And boy, did she deliver.
For the second consecutive day, Thitikul pulled off an eagle-birdie finish, cementing her place in the record books. Her victory at the CME Group Tour Championship not only earned her the prestigious title but also a record-setting $4 million first-place check. To put that into perspective, this prize is larger than the winner’s share in three of the four men’s major championships this year. Let that sink in for a moment.
A Battle for the Ages
Thitikul’s final round was nothing short of spectacular. She shot a 7-under 65 on Sunday, finishing the tournament at 22 under par. Her closest competitor, Angel Yin, also had an impressive day with a 66, but it wasn’t enough to hold off Thitikul’s late charge. Yin, who had a two-shot lead heading into the 17th hole, ultimately settled for the $1 million runner-up check after a dramatic finish.
The final two holes were a rollercoaster of emotions. Thitikul and Yin were tied at 21 under as they approached the 18th hole, fully aware that a single mistake could cost them a staggering $3 million. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, and the pressure was palpable.
The Decisive Moments
Thitikul started the day with a two-shot lead after three holes, but Yin quickly erased it. A birdie by Yin and a bogey by Thitikul on the par-4 fourth hole brought them level at 16 under. From there, it was a back-and-forth battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The turning point came on the par-5 17th hole, where Thitikul delivered a clutch eagle to pull even with Yin at 21 under. Both players hit the fairway on the 18th, setting up a dramatic finish. Thitikul’s approach shot was nearly flawless, landing just 5 feet from the cup. Yin’s response was solid but left her with a 15-foot birdie putt. The pressure was on.
Yin’s putt narrowly missed, leaving the door wide open for Thitikul. With ice in her veins, Thitikul sank her birdie putt dead center, sealing the victory and making history in the process.
A Week to Remember
Thitikul’s triumph at the CME Group Tour Championship capped off an incredible week. She had already secured a $1 million bonus through the Aon Risk-Reward Challenge, a season-long competition that rewards players for their performance on designated holes. By the end of the week, Thitikul had pocketed a jaw-dropping $5 million, a sum that will undoubtedly change her life forever.
Her performance on the 17th and 18th holes at Tiburon Golf Club was nothing short of legendary. Over the course of the tournament, she went 8 under on those two holes alone, showcasing her ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Key Takeaways
- Jeeno Thitikul’s $4 million first-place prize is the largest in women’s golf history.
- She finished the tournament at 22 under par, one shot ahead of Angel Yin.
- Thitikul’s eagle-birdie finish on the final two holes was the difference-maker.
- Her total earnings for the week, including a $1 million bonus, amounted to $5 million.
At just 21 years old, Thitikul has already achieved what many golfers can only dream of. Her composure under pressure and ability to deliver in clutch moments make her a rising star to watch in the world of golf. As the dust settles on this historic win, one thing is clear: Jeeno Thitikul has arrived, and she’s here to stay.
What’s next for Thitikul? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—she’s already cemented her place in the annals of golf history. For now, she can bask in the glory of her record-breaking achievement and enjoy the well-deserved fruits of her labor.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
