By: Max Bechtoldt
Is it too early to say tournament of the year? The LPGA’s second event was an absolute roller coaster for the final two hours, with dramatic lead swings, eagles and a playoff between two of the best in the world.
Korda stood on the 17 tee with a three-stroke deficit after Lydia Ko hit a picture perfect shot to eagle that very hole. As Korda said post-round, she thought the tournament was over. But, she found a little hometown magic, nailing a mid-range putt for an eagle of her own.
The 18th was playing as the toughest hole of the day with only one birdie. Korda’s second shot though was the thing champions are made of, sticking it to within inches of the cup to force the playoff.
In the first playoff hole, Ko hit her approach wayward, but her short game magic showed up, getting a clutch up-and-down to force a second playoff hole. This time it was Nelly who missed the green, but a tough three-putt from Ko opened the door that Korda slammed shut.
It was the ninth win for Korda on the LPGA Tour and her first since 2022, and in a career of thrilling finishes, this one will be tough to top.
