Did Hull Capitalize on Thitikul's Last-Hole Collapse to Claim the Kroger Queen City Title?

Charley Hull clinched her victory at the Kroger Queen City Championship, taking advantage of a dramatic putting error from top-ranked Jeeno Thitikul on the final hole. Hull’s steady performance secured her third LPGA Tour title, marking her first win since 2022.

Last updated: 30 September 2023 (BST)

Key Highlights of the Kroger Queen City Championship

• Charley Hull won with a total score of 20-under 268.
• Jeeno Thitikul experienced a four-putt meltdown on the 18th hole.
• Lottie Woad finished third with a score of 18 under.
• This marks Hull's first LPGA Tour title since 2022.
• Thitikul missed a chance to become the first multiple winner of the season.

Final Round Overview

The final round of the Kroger Queen City Championship at TPC River’s Bend was filled with tension, particularly for Thitikul, who began the day with a one-stroke lead over Hull. Despite Hull's bogey on the 17th, the stage was set for a thrilling conclusion.

Thitikul's Unfortunate Endgame

Jeeno Thitikul, known for her exceptional putting skills, faced an unexpected challenge on the 18th hole. After hitting a long putt from approximately 50 feet, she struggled to regain her composure, ultimately four-putting the green. This included missing a crucial 5-footer and a subsequent 3-foot putt, allowing Hull to seize the victory with a two-putt from around 30 feet.

Hull's Performance

Charley Hull finished the day with a commendable 4-under 68, bringing her tournament total to 20-under 268. Hull's performance has been remarkable as she bounced back from a runner-up finish in Houston just a week prior, showcasing her resilience and skill in high-pressure situations.

Impact of the Win on Hull's Career

This victory marks Hull's third title on the LPGA Tour, adding to her impressive record, which also includes four wins on the Ladies European Tour. Winning the Kroger Queen City Championship is particularly significant for Hull, as it is her first triumph since 2022, potentially signalling a resurgence in her career.

Thitikul's Season Performance

For Thitikul, this tournament was crucial as she aimed to become the first player to win multiple titles on the LPGA Tour this season. Despite her unfortunate finish, she matched Hull with a score of 68 on the final day, demonstrating her competitiveness and skill.

Other Notable Performances

In addition to the top two, several other players put in strong performances throughout the tournament. Lottie Woad, representing England, finished in third place with a score of 18-under after a solid 66 on the final day. Miyu Yamashita ended the tournament at 17 under, while Nelly Korda, ranked second in the world, finished at 15 under. Other notable players included Nasa Hataoka and Jennifer Kupcho, both of whom performed admirably, showcasing the depth of talent present in this tournament.

Looking Ahead

With the Kroger Queen City Championship concluded, both Hull and Thitikul will look ahead to future tournaments. Hull aims to build on her recent success, while Thitikul will focus on refining her putting game to prevent similar mishaps. The LPGA Tour continues to be highly competitive, and with several tournaments left in the season, fans can expect thrilling performances from these talented athletes.

What This Means for the LPGA Tour

The Kroger Queen City Championship not only highlights the individual talents of players like Hull and Thitikul but also underscores the competitive spirit and unpredictability of the LPGA Tour. As players vie for titles, each tournament becomes crucial for rankings and personal accolades, making every round an opportunity for history-making moments.

FAQs

Who won the Kroger Queen City Championship?

Charley Hull won the Kroger Queen City Championship, finishing with a score of 20-under 268.

What happened to Jeeno Thitikul on the final hole?

Jeeno Thitikul had a four-putt on the 18th hole, which allowed Charley Hull to secure victory.

How many LPGA Tour titles has Charley Hull won?

Charley Hull has won three titles on the LPGA Tour, with her most recent win at the Kroger Queen City Championship.

What was Lottie Woad's final score in the championship?

Lottie Woad finished in third place with a score of 18-under after shooting a 66 in the final round.

When did Charley Hull last win before this championship?

Charley Hull's last win on the LPGA Tour before the Kroger Queen City Championship was in 2022.