Thitikul Dominates at CME Group Tour Championship

NAPLES, Fla. – Jeeno Thitikul made nine birdies for the second straight day,resulting in an 8-under 64. This performance allowed the Thai star to extend her led going into the final round of the CME Group Tour championship.

Thitikul, currently ranked No. 1 in women’s golf, is poised to win all the LPGA Tour awards, including the $4 million prize for first place.

She has effectively secured LPGA player of the year and the Vare Trophy for the lowest scoring average, and could potentially set an LPGA record with her final round.

Nelly Korda shot a 65 but fell further behind. She is six shots back, tied with Pajaree Anannarukarn of Thailand, who also carded a 65 on a warm, calm day at Tiburon Golf Club.

Thitikul stands at 22-under 196.Having won last year at 22-under par, she emphasized her determination to continue performing well.

“Trying to make birdies and birdies and birdies,” she said with a relaxed smile.

After a bogey on the par-5 first hole, Thitikul quickly recovered with four birdies in five holes. She then added four consecutive birdies on the back nine to solidify her lead.