In a stunning victory, Korean-American golfer Yelimi Noh, also known as Yealimi Noh, clinched her first LPGA Tour win at the Founders Cup held in Bradenton, Florida. The 23-year-old dominated the final round, finishing with a remarkable 21-under-par total, a commanding 4 strokes ahead of her closest competitor, fellow Korean star Ko Jin-young.
Noh's journey to this triumph was not without its challenges. After a promising start to her professional career, including a notable tied for 6th place finish at the 2019 Thornberry Creek LPGA Classic, her performance had plateaued. She even had to compete in the 2023 LPGA Q-Series to regain her tour card.
However, Noh's perseverance paid off. This season, she showcased renewed focus and improved her game, particularly with the use of a broom putter that enhanced her stability on the greens. Her physical conditioning also played a crucial role in her success.
The final round was a rollercoaster ride. While Ko Jin-young initially surged ahead, Noh remained composed and seized the opportunity when Ko faltered. Noh's birdies on the 13th and 14th holes propelled her back into the lead, and she never looked back.
Despite the loss, Ko Jin-young demonstrated a remarkable return to form. After battling injuries, she displayed improved strength and an impressive increase in her driving distance. Her consecutive top-5 finishes in the first two events of the season signal a promising comeback.
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