Thitikul Secures Historic Victory with Record $4 Million LPGA Finale Prize

Jeeno Thitikul delivered a thrilling finish to capture the CME Group Tour Championship title on Sunday, claiming a record-breaking $4 million first-place prize — the largest in women's golf history. Thitikul's eagle-birdie surge on the final two holes secured her one-shot victory over Angel Yin.

The 21-year-old from Thailand shot a 7-under 65 in the final round, finishing at 22 under par for the week. Her closing stretch mirrored her Saturday performance, where she also went eagle-birdie on the final two holes.

“Definitely spend it,” Thitikul said when asked about her plans for the historic prize. “That's an honest answer, for sure.”

Thitikul's victory overshadowed a strong performance by Yin, who carded a 66 on Sunday and finished at 21 under. Yin, who led by two shots heading into the 17th hole, fell short after her birdie attempt on 18 narrowly missed. She took home a $1 million runner-up prize, her biggest payday to date.

“I'm pretty awesome. ... I've learned that I just need to believe in myself and that's what I did," Yin said, reflecting on her week.

Olympic gold medalist Lydia Ko surged into third place with a 9-birdie round of 63, finishing at 17 under par. “I'm excited to be able to work hard this offseason and have another great 2025,” Ko said.

Thitikul's dramatic final hole saw her approach shot land within 5 feet of the pin, setting up a winning birdie putt. Yin's approach stopped 15 feet away, and her birdie attempt narrowly missed. Thitikul's putt dropped dead center, sealing her place in history.

The win capped off an extraordinary week for Thitikul, who also secured a $1 million bonus from the Aon Risk-Reward Challenge, bringing her total earnings to $5 million. Her dominance on the 17th and 18th holes at Tiburon Golf Club — going 8 under across the four rounds — was the key to her success.

“All the hard work paid off,” Thitikul said.

Ruoning Yin finished fourth at 16 under after a final-round 68, while LPGA Player of the Year Nelly Korda and Narin An tied for fifth at 15 under. Japan's Ayaka Furue finished at 13 under, winning the Vare Trophy for the season's best scoring average.

The event also marked the farewell for two LPGA veterans. Marina Alex, who shot 66 to finish at 12 under, and Ally Ewing, who closed with a 68 to end at 11 under, announced their retirements. “I'm happy to have ended on my best,” Alex said, celebrating with a bottle of sparkling wine. Ewing added, “I've been at peace with my decision. It's just so nice to be able to share the walk with my family this week.”

Lexi Thompson, a 15-time LPGA winner, finished at 2 under and plans to reduce her schedule in 2025. However, she will return in December for the Grant Thornton Invitational, teaming with Rickie Fowler. “I'm not going anywhere, guys,” Thompson assured. “I'll be back in two weeks.”