Soo Bin Joo's 3-under 69 in Shanghai was no ordinary closing round, but a real statement in the relentless battle for the CME Tour Championship. Her truly strong performance, which earned her a tied eighth place at 3-under 285, shuffles the cards in the "Race to the CME Globe" and keeps the dream of the season finale alive.
The Buick LPGA Shanghai tournament itself was a real thriller. China's local favorite Ruoning Yin secured the victory with a scorching final round of 66 strokes, triumphing by just one shot over Hye-Jin Choi at 11-under 277. An incredible duel that earned Yin her second consecutive LPGA title. Joo, by the way, shared eighth place with defending champion Jeeno Thitikul.
Nerves of Steel for CME Points
But for Joo, it wasn't just the top result that mattered. Her tied eighth place means a massive points push in the "Race to the CME Globe." Everything is at stake here: Only the top 60 after "The Annika" in November will be at the season finale. Shanghai was worth 500 points for the winner, but Joo's top-10 finish now gives her a significantly better starting position to qualify for the CME Tour Championship. The official qualification is still pending, but Joo has made an impressive comeback.
Asia Swing Kicks Off with a Bang
The tournament at Sheshan Golf Club marked the start of the highly-lucrative LPGA Asia Swing, featuring a substantial prize fund of $3.2 million and a field of 81 players with no cut. The pressure was immense, but Joo proved in crucial moments that her game is on point. Her "off the green birdie" was a highlight, showcasing the quality she brings to and around the green. The focus is now clearly on the upcoming events to definitively secure her spot in the finale.
