Yuri Yoshida claimed her first LPGA Tour title – what a nail-biting one-shot victory at the Ladies Championship in South Korea! The Japanese player delivered a true rollercoaster performance on Sunday, crowning herself champion while competitors watched breathlessly until the very end.
The 26-year-old, who only joined the Tour in 2024, dominated the course with an impressive 17-under. After the decisive putt, there was no holding back: a proper champagne shower sealed the career-changing moment. Yoshida started the final day four strokes behind but then had an explosive start: She carded an eagle and three birdies on the first seven holes of Pine Beach Golf Links. Things were really clicking!
However, the pressure of a potential first LPGA win became palpable. A bogey on the 15th had fans holding their breath, a birdie on the 17th brought new hope, only for another bogey on the 18th to complete the drama. But fortune was on Yoshida's side: Overnight leader Ryu Hae-ran also stumbled on the final hole. Thus, Yoshida's round of 68 (four-under-par) was enough to seal the deal.
In the end, local favorites Choi Hye-jin and Ryu Hae-ran shared second place at 16-under. Trailing them by another stroke were their South Korean compatriots Kim Min-sol and Kim Hyo-joo. For Choi Hye-jin, it was a particularly bitter pill: Her wait for a first LPGA win continues. Last week in Shanghai, she also finished second, just one stroke behind the winner. That truly stings!
