Lydia Ko from New Zealand emerged as the winner of the Women’s Open at the Old Course at St Andrews after a final round of 69. This victory marks her third major championship win, following her previous triumphs at the 2015 Evian Championship and the 2016 Chevron Championship. Ko’s win also makes her the first New Zealander to ever win the Women’s Open, adding to her already successful month after securing a gold medal at the Paris Olympic Games and earning enough points to be inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame. Reflecting on her achievements, Ko expressed her disbelief at the turn of events and her gratitude for the support and experience of playing at St Andrews.
Despite facing wet and windy conditions, Ko managed to overcome a four-shot deficit to secure the win, finishing with a total of seven-under-par. She strategically navigated the challenging Old Course, making crucial birdies on several holes and finishing with a birdie on the last hole to set the clubhouse lead. Ko shared her mindset during the final round, emphasizing the importance of focusing on each shot and achieving small goals rather than getting caught up in the possibility of winning. Her composure and determination ultimately led her to victory, demonstrating her skill and resilience as a golfer.
Several other players also performed well during the tournament, with four players finishing tied for second place at five-under-par. Jiyai Shin, Lilia Vu, Nelly Korda, and Ruoning Yin all showcased their talent and competitiveness throughout the week. Additionally, amateur golfer Lottie Woad stood out as the lowest amateur in the field, tying for 10th place and winning the Smyth Salver trophy. Woad’s impressive performance highlighted her potential as a rising star in the golfing world, earning recognition as the leading European amateur alongside other top players.
Among the notable competitors in the tournament were Charley Hull and Georgia Hall, both Solheim Cup stars who experienced mixed results. Hull, who led after the first round, struggled in the subsequent rounds and finished in a tie for 20th place. Hall, on the other hand, managed to finish one shot better in a tie for 22nd place, showcasing her resilience and competitive spirit despite facing challenges on the course. The Women’s Open at St Andrews provided a platform for these talented players to demonstrate their skills and passion for the sport, captivating audiences with their performances and achievements.
Overall, Lydia Ko’s victory at the Women’s Open exemplifies her talent, determination, and success as a professional golfer. Her remarkable journey from winning major championships to earning a place in the LPGA Hall of Fame reflects her dedication and commitment to the sport. The tournament also showcased the skills of other top players, including amateur standout Lottie Woad and seasoned professionals like Jiyai Shin, Lilia Vu, Nelly Korda, and Ruoning Yin. As the first New Zealander to triumph at the Women’s Open, Ko’s win adds to her legacy and sets a new standard for excellence in women’s golf. The fierce competition, challenging conditions, and memorable performances at St Andrews further solidify the tournament’s reputation as a premier event in the world of golf.
