Haeran Ryu made history at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, overcoming a 10-shot deficit after the first round to secure her victory at Hazeltine National Golf Club. After shooting a 73 in her opening round, Ryu switched putters and dramatically improved her performance, posting rounds of 64 and 68 before entering the final round tied for the lead. On Sunday, she maintained her composure despite a weather delay, finishing with a two-under-par 70 and a total score of 13-under 275. Ryu’s triumph marks her fourth LPGA title and makes her only the second woman to win a major after trailing by 10 or more shots after 18 holes, a feat last accomplished in 1964. She earned $1.95 million from the record $13 million purse, while world number one Nelly Korda finished in a tie for eighth after a disappointing final round.
Why It Matters
Ryu’s victory signifies a remarkable comeback in women’s golf, showcasing resilience and skill under pressure. Her achievement parallels the historical context of Carol Mann’s 1964 win, illustrating the rarity of such comebacks in major tournaments. This win contributes to Ryu’s growing legacy on the LPGA Tour, where she has now won in each of her first four seasons, a feat achieved previously by Jin Young Ko. Additionally, the record purse of $13 million highlights the increasing financial support for women’s golf, further elevating the sport’s profile and encouraging participation and viewership.
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