Update Time:2024-02-28 Clicks:111
In Chonburi, Thailand, on Sunday, local favorite Patty Tavatanakit secured the championship title at the LPGA Thailand tournament by defeating Albane Valenzuela with a one-stroke lead. The 24-year-old Bangkok native showcased her prowess at the Siam Country Club Pattaya Old Course, effortlessly grabbing a birdie on the final hole with an impressive 67, finishing with a total score of 267, 21 strokes under par.
"To be honest, I'm speechless. I was quite nervous today, a bit choked up, because there were so many Thai fans out here supporting me," Tavatanakit said, her victory marking her second LPGA win since clinching the title at the 2021 ANA Inspiration. "To win in front of my parents at a home event is truly a dream come true."
Tavatanakit rides on the wave of success, having claimed victory just seven days prior at the Ladies European Tour event in Saudi Arabia. Ranked 43rd in the world, she joins former world No. 1 Ariya Jutanugarn as the second local champion of the event following Jutanugarn's win in 2021.
Ranked 91st globally, Valenzuela delivered an outstanding 63, including an eagle on the fifth hole and seven birdies (six on the back nine), finishing with a score of 268, 20 strokes under par. "I gave it my all. I'm proud of my performance," the 26-year-old Swiss remarked.
South Korean player Sei Young Kim, the 2020 Women's PGA Championship winner, finished with a score of 65, ending at 270, 18 strokes under par, tying with compatriot Hye-Jin Choi, who carded a 66, for third place.
The LPGA Championship is set to continue in Singapore and China over the next two weeks.