Youmin Hwang secured her first victory on the LPGA Tour by winning the LOTTE Championship at Hoakalei Country Club in Hawaii. Hwang’s impressive performance included birdies on the final four holes, leading to a five-under-par 67 and a one-shot win over Hyo Joo Kim. Nelly Korda, currently ranked second in the world, finished three strokes behind Hwang, continuing her search for a victory this year.
Hwang, who achieved her dream of winning on the LPGA Tour, expressed her excitement, stating, “This is my dream. Finally, I achieved my dream here at the LOTTE Championship, and I also very much look forward to my future as well in the LPGA.” Her journey to victory was marked by a pivotal moment on the par-four 17th hole, where she tied for the lead with Kim and Minami Katsu after a crucial birdie. Hwang benefited when Katsu and Kim both bogeyed the hole in the group behind her.
On the final hole, the par-five 18th, Hwang faced a challenging shot after her second stroke landed in the rough. She managed to chip the ball to within a foot of the hole, securing her victory. Her final score of 16-under-par was enough to edge out Kim, who finished with a score of 15-under.
Korda, who closed with a 69 for a total of 17-under, acknowledged the challenges she has faced this season. Despite not yet claiming a title in 2024, she remains optimistic about her performance. “Overall, I’m putting myself into contention,” Korda said. “It’s definitely an interesting year for me result-wise, but at the end of the day, I’m giving it 100 percent, controlling what I can control and I’m happy with that.”
The competitive nature of the tournament showcased Korda’s determination as she reflected on her love for the game. “I just love the grind. I love going out there, competing, doing what I love, playing in front of the fans who are just as passionate about the game as we are, and also going home and working hard on my craft,” she added.
As the LPGA Tour moves forward, it will head to Asia for five consecutive tournaments across Shanghai, South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan. The upcoming events will present fresh opportunities for players like Korda to chase victory, while Hwang aims to build on her newfound success.