Golf
LPGA Unforgettable Moments
The 2025 LPGA Tour has been characterized by an extraordinary level of unpredictability. All five major tournaments were won by different players, with each being a first-time winner.
Additionally, 26 distinct players emerged victorious across the various tournaments, highlighting the diverse range of talent. While the season was marked by numerous surprises, several moments stood out as particularly unforgettable, sparking enthusiasm among fans and encouraging continued engagement with the sport. Let us revisit these memorable moments from the year.
Yamashita maiden LPGA Tour title
Miyu Yamashita achieved a milestone in her career by winning her first LPGA Tour title at the AIG Women’s Open, outshining competitors Charley Hull and Minami Katsu by two rounds to claim her most significant victory. The 24-year-old Japanese golfer demonstrated unwavering dominance from start to finish, becoming the third Japanese player to win the prestigious title. This accomplishment marked the 14th consecutive year the tournament has seen a different winner. She also became the sixth Japanese player to attain a major victory. Later in the year, she won the LPGA Maybank Championship to conclude the season on a high note.
Thitikul breaking the records
Despite not securing a major title, Jeeno Thitikul continued to demonstrate her dominance as the world’s leading women’s golf player. The 22-year-old Thai sensation became the only player to win more than two tournaments, achieving three victories on tour. Her first win came at the Muziho Americans Open, where she dominated the competition. A more impressive victory was secured at the Buick LPGA Shanghai, where she shot 5-under in the final four holes, recording one of the greatest comebacks. Thitikul concluded the year by winning the season finale tournament, the CME Group Tour Championship, earning a record-breaking $4 million paycheck. Throughout the season, she consistently finished inside the top 10 in 14 of the 20 tournaments she participated in.
Saigo became first Japanese to win Chevron Championship
The Chevron Championship this year witnessed a thrilling conclusion, with Mao Saigo ultimately triumphant, securing her maiden major title. A playoff round against Lindy Duncan, Ariya Jutanugarn, Yin Ruoning, and Kim Hyo Joo was necessary for the 23-year-old Japanese golfer. As the 2024 Rookie of the Year, she effectively exploited her opponents’ mistakes, becoming the first Japanese player to win the event and the fifth Japanese player to claim a major title.