By: Max Bechtoldt
After a seemingly endless early-season hiatus, the LPGA is finally back this weekend for the Honda LPGA Thailand at Siam Country Club.
This was the tour stop that started Lilia Vu’s 2023 player of the year run. Vu came into the final round six strokes back of Thailand’s own Natthakritta Vongtaveelap, but shot a bogey-free, -8 64. It was Vu’s first career tournament win and the first of four on the season for the American.
Other notable past champions include the greatest Thai player ever, Ariya Jutanugarn, who had a big bounce-back victory in 2021. In 2018, Jessica Korda set the course record with a 62 in the second round and broke a three-year winless streak on tour. Hall of Famers Inbee Park and Lorena Ochoa have also lifted the trophy here.
This could be considered the unofficial start to full-field action on the LPGA Tour this year, as many Asian-born players are making their first start of the season. This includes Jin Young Ko, Yuka Saso, Hyo Joo Kim, Hinako Shibuno and others.
The Honda LPGA Thailand begins its first round on Feb. 22.
