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Lexi Thompson becomes 1st US winner ever at S. Korea’s LPGA event

October 19, 2015

Lexi Thompson of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the LPGA KEB Hana Bank Championship golf tournament at Sky72 Golf Club in Incheon, South Korea, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2015. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

By Brian Han

World No. 5 Lexi Thompson made history on Sunday in South Korea when she won by a single stroke at the LPGA KEB Hana Bank Championship.

For the first time ever in the event’s 13-year history, an American took the title home. She did so by finishing out with a 3-under 69. It was her second victory of the season and sixth in her career.

“It’s very satisfying.” Thompson told reporters after the event. “I always look forward to coming back to South Korea and playing in front of these amazing fans. I love Sky 72. It’s a great golf course. Getting a win, it means so much.”

At only 20 years old, Thompson is cementing herself as the face of a new generation of American female golfers.

Korean New Zealander Lydia Ko failed to take away the top world rank from Park Inbee despite entering the final round with a tie for the lead. Her even-par 72 put her in a tie for fourth at 13-under with South Korean Amy Yang.

Yang accomplished a new career feat with nine consecutive birdies to close out the tournament.

“I don’t know what just happened. Just can’t believe,” Yang said. “Shots were great. Early in the week I was shaky, but I don’t know, this back nine was crazy good.”

Even though Ko couldn’t close out the win, she seemed satisfied with having the opportunity to play in front of friends and family.

“It was great to just see family, my niece and nephews out here,” Ko said. “It’s just really good to be able to play in front of them. Doesn’t matter if I shoot even par, under par, over par, you don’t get to play in front of family or relatives that often.”