By: Max Bechtoldt
Lydia Ko is one of the greatest LPGA players of all time. Her resume of 19 wins, two majors and two Player of the Year awards speaks for itself. But after a weak 2023, this could be a pivotal moment in Ko’s career.
After Ko’s 2022, which saw her win four tournaments and the LPGA Player of the Year award, she sits only two points away from making the Hall of Fame at only 26 years old. The Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions could get her within one.
Ko is at – 12 and leads by two strokes over 19-year-old Alexa Pano heading into the final round. Her third round was fantastic. Ko shot a -4 68 in tough conditions, battling the elements to hit 12 fairways and 15 greens. Pretty good numbers for a player who typically relies on her short game.
Speaking of her short game, Ko excelled where she usually does, by converting her lone sand save opportunity, and hitting only 28 total putts.
Pano is her closest competitor, followed by Ally Ewing at -7. Seeing Ko’s play in the last couple of rounds though, it is hard to see anyone beyond those two contending for this title.
After no wins in 2023, this could be a massive start to Lydia Ko’s 2024 campaign.
