Thitikul Rallies Past Yoon to Capture LOTTE Championship
Jeeno Thitikul won the LOTTE Championship at Hoakalei Country Club, finishing at 21-under 267. She recovered from a double bogey at the 16th with birdies on the final two holes to beat Ina Yoon by three strokes. It was Thitikul's fourth LPGA Tour title of 2026, matching Nelly Korda's season total.
Thitikul, 23, is ranked second globally and represents Thailand. This was her 11th LPGA Tour title, leaving her one short of Ariya Jutanugarn’s mark for Thai players. She began the final round three ahead, then saw that lead vanish after finding water at the 16th. Birdies at 17 and 18 sealed a three-shot win over Yoon, who has six top-10s this year but no LPGA title.
Miyu Yamashita took third at 17 under, following her nine-stroke CPKC Women’s Open win in August. Auston Kim was fourth, while Michelle Zhang and Maja Stark shared fifth. The LPGA schedule next moves to Asia, starting with the Buick LPGA Shanghai from October 15–18.
Thitikul’s late rally may boost interest in women’s golf, especially among Thai fans and young players who see a 23-year-old contending at the top. Her fourth win of 2026 could strengthen her profile with sponsors and media, while Yoon’s near miss may add attention to her pursuit of a first LPGA title. The LPGA’s Asian swing could also draw larger audiences in the region.