Down by two with two holes to play, Jeeno Thitikul knew exactly what was needed to capture the biggest prize in women's golf history. She executed an eagle-birdie finish for the second straight day, winning the record-setting $4 million check by securing the CME Group Tour Championship. This victory not only marks a milestone in her career but also sets a new standard for women's golf, surpassing the prize money typically seen in men's major championships.
Thitikul shot an impressive 7-under 65 on Sunday, finishing the week at a remarkable 22 under, just edging out Angel Yin who finished with a 66. The tension heightened as both players were tied at 21 under going into the last hole after a series of lead exchanges. A single mistake could significantly impact their fortunes, with Thitikul's expertise leading her to ultimately clutch the win and the monumental prize.
The final hole saw Thitikul's nearly perfect approach shot leaving her just about 5 feet from the cup, while Yin’s response was slightly further at 15 feet. As they approached the green, the pressure mounted. Yin's birdie attempt narrowly missed, while Thitikul's putt was executed flawlessly. It was a moment of triumph not only for Thitikul, but for women's golf as a whole, showcasing the growing competitiveness and excitement of the sport.
Adding to her momentous victory, Thitikul clinched an additional $1 million bonus through the Aon Risk-Reward Challenge, resulting in an incredible week totaling $5 million for the 21-year-old star from Thailand. Her consistent performance on the Nos. 17 and 18 at Tiburon Golf Club—going 8 under across the four days—was pivotal in securing both her landmark victory and the largest payout ever in women's golf.
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