Thitikul Poised for Historic LPGA Season, Korda Battles Back into Contention
Teh 2025 LPGA season is drawing to a close, and while Nelly Korda‘s struggles to return to the winner’s circle have dominated headlines, a quiet force has been steadily reshaping the landscape of women’s golf: Jeeno Thitikul. She’s not just winning; she’s redefining dominance, and now stands on the cusp of a truly remarkable year.
Korda, acknowledging the pressure of chasing Thitikul, recently shared her mindset. “you just have to be focused on your process and yourself,” she explained, noting that pushing too hard can lead to errors. “If it happens,it happens,but you also have to not get too ahead of yourself and play the game.”
Thitikul’s Statistical reign
Thitikul’s rise hasn’t been about flashy victories alone. Her consistency and all-around game have been statistically breathtaking. Consider these leading LPGA stats:
* Scoring Average: 68.88
* Strokes Gained: Total: 2.96
* Birdie or Better Percentage: 27.69%
* Bogey avoidance: 10.94%
* Par 3 Scoring average: 2.89
* Par 4 Scoring Average: 3.92
These numbers paint a clear picture: Thitikul isn’t just playing well, she’s operating on a different level. She already secured a win at the CME Group Tour Championship last year and enters Sunday’s final round at 22 under, a commanding six strokes ahead of Korda and Pajaree Anannarukarn.
A Champion’s Humility
Despite her notable performance, Thitikul remains remarkably grounded. She understands that even a meaningful lead isn’t safe on a course conducive to low scoring. “All the winners here,the score is like 20-plus something,which is really low scoring,” Thitikul said.”We just need to make more and more and more.”
This outlook was evident throughout her Saturday performance. After a shaky start with a bogey on the first hole, she responded with a string of birdies, including four consecutive on the back nine, to extend her lead. Even after surpassing Korda as World No. 1, she playfully admitted, “I don’t think she’s that good.”
Korda’s Pursuit and the Competitive Landscape
The only player with a realistic chance of catching Thitikul is Korda herself. She’s hoping to overcome a frustrating season and find that crucial edge to secure a victory. Korda recognizes the increasing depth of talent on the LPGA Tour. “The competition is just getting better and better out here every year,” she stated. “it just makes you want to improve as well because there is nothing better than being in contention going down Sunday on the back nine.”
Thitikul’s potential win on Sunday would not only defend her title but also cement her claim to the Player of the Year Award and the Vare Trophy. It’s a fitting culmination to a season where she has statistically dominated the competition, showcasing a blend of skill, consistency, and a refreshing dose of humility.
Ultimately, this weekend in Naples promises a thrilling finish, with Thitikul poised to cap off a historic season and Korda determined to rediscover her winning form.You can expect a compelling battle as both players navigate the challenges of a gettable course and strive for victory.