Get ready to witness history in the making! Jeeno Thitikul, the world’s top-ranked golfer, has seized the lead in the third round of the LPGA Thailand tournament, and the golf world is buzzing with excitement. But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: Thitikul’s final three holes on Saturday were nothing short of spectacular, with back-to-back birdies that secured her a two-stroke advantage heading into the final round. This isn’t just a game—it’s a masterclass in precision and strategy.
Playing on her home turf at the Siam Country Club Old Course in Chonburi, Thailand, Thitikul delivered a stunning 6-under 66, bringing her 54-hole total to an impressive 20-under 196. The turning point? A 15-foot birdie putt on the par-3 16th hole that broke a four-way tie for the lead. And while her eagle chip on the 18th hole narrowly missed, she calmly tapped in for another birdie, solidifying her dominance. But here’s the controversial part: can she hold onto this lead in the final round, or will the pressure of playing at home become her Achilles’ heel?
In her own words, Thitikul credits her success to staying focused and consistent. ‘I try to keep everything on track,’ she said. Her driver has been exceptional, her irons have exceeded her expectations, and her putting has been flawless over the past three days. With seven LPGA Tour wins already under her belt, she’s no stranger to high-stakes competition. Yet, this tournament feels different—it’s personal.
Trailing behind her is Hyo Joo Kim, who fired a 65 to claim second place. Kim, however, isn’t backing down. ‘I’m in a position where I have to chase, but that allows me to be more aggressive,’ she stated confidently. Meanwhile, Allisen Corpuz (67), second-round leader Somi Lee (72), and Chizzy Iwai (68) are tied for third, three strokes back. And this is the part most people miss: Lee’s three bogeys in four holes on the front nine opened the door for Thitikul’s surge—a reminder that golf is as much a mental game as it is physical.
Lydia Ko, sitting in sixth place after a 69, is four strokes behind but remains a formidable contender. The tournament, located about 125 kilometers (75 miles) east of Bangkok, is the first of three consecutive Asian events on the LPGA Tour, with stops in Singapore and China to follow. This ‘early Asian swing’ is shaping up to be a defining moment in the season.
Thitikul’s comeback in the third round was nothing short of remarkable. Starting three strokes behind, she capitalized on Lee’s early struggles, closing the gap with a birdie on the par-5 first hole while Lee settled for par. By the sixth hole, she was tied for the lead, and by the eighth, she had taken it outright. The two players were neck-and-neck at 18-under after 12 holes, but Thitikul’s late-round heroics sealed her advantage.
Further down the leaderboard, Canadian Brooke Henderson shot a 70 to sit at 7-under, 13 strokes behind, while defending champion Angel Yin posted a 69 to reach 3-under. But the real question remains: Can anyone stop Thitikul’s momentum, or is she destined to claim victory on home soil?
What do you think? Is Thitikul’s lead insurmountable, or is there still room for a dramatic upset? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on this gripping tournament!
