Menlo park: LPGA veteran Kim Hyo-joo demonstrated resilience and determination as she secured her eighth career LPGA title at the Fortinet Founders Cup in California on Sunday. Despite losing a five-stroke lead during the final round at Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club, the 30-year-old South Korean golfer held off a strong challenge from American star Nelly Korda to emerge victorious by one stroke.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim's performance was highlighted by two crucial par saves on the 13th and 17th holes, both par-3s, which she credited as key to her victory. Kim expressed pride in her ability to maintain focus and composure, despite her shots not playing well throughout the day. Her tee shot on the 13th hole went behind the green, but a fortunate chip that struck the flagstick allowed her to save par and maintain her lead over Korda.
The 17th hole presented a similar challenge, with Kim missing the green long but managing to chip to within a couple of feet for another par save. Korda, who initially looked poised to capitalize, three-putted for a bogey, dropping her to 15-under and two strokes behind Kim with only one hole remaining. Kim's closing bogey at the par-5 18th hole was enough to secure her victory.
Reflecting on the final round, Kim acknowledged the difficulty of the day and the challenge of maintaining her lead. Despite the pressure, she remained focused on her own game and refrained from being distracted by the performance of other players. Kim also expressed her admiration for Korda, whose swings she regards highly among LPGA players, and noted the valuable learning experience of competing against her.
Kim's latest victory adds to her impressive record, having previously won the Founders Cup in 2015 as a 19-year-old. With wins in her teens, 20s, and 30s, Kim's career continues to flourish. Looking ahead, she aims to defend her title at the upcoming Ford Championship, hoping to achieve consecutive tournament wins for the first time in her LPGA career by maintaining a focus on making birdies.