South Korea’s Hwang You-min fired a closing five-under-par 67 to capture her first LPGA Tour title at the Lotte Championship in Hawaii on Saturday.
The 22-year-old from Seoul produced a scintillating finish, reeling off four consecutive birdies over her final four holes to reach 17 under for the tournament at Hoakalei Country Club.
Her late surge was enough to move her ahead of a strong field, with compatriot Kim Hyo-joo finishing second on 16 under after a final-round 68.
Japan’s Minami Katsu was two shots back on 15 under, while US star Nelly Korda was among four players tied for fourth.
South Africa’s Paula Reto ended on five under (T35) after carding 73.
Hwang was left stunned by the breakthrough victory, which also secured her an LPGA Tour card for the first time.
“I actually didn’t believe in myself, but my caddie supported me very well during the course,” Hwang said through an interpreter.
Korda’s title hopes faded with a costly bogey at the 16th, which left her on 14 under with two holes to play.
The two-time Major winner and former world No 1 expressed frustration at the late error.
“A little disappointed,” Korda said. “That one hole where I bogeyed, I still had a chance to par and missed a short putt.
“Overall, I’m putting myself into contention. It’s definitely an interesting year for me result-wise, but at the end of the day I’m giving it 100%, controlling what I can control, and I’m happy with that.”
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Photo: Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images
Article Link: Hwang wins maiden LPGA Tour title