In a gripping display of golf mastery, Lydia Ko seized victory at the LPGA’s HSBC Women’s World Championship, leaving England’s Charley Hull in her wake. This win marks Ko’s comeback to the winner’s circle since her last victory in September, adding the 23rd LPGA title to her illustrious career.
Hull, who was hot on Ko’s heels just a stroke behind going into the final round, watched her championship dreams dissipate after a disappointing 74. She eventually landed in a fourth-place tie at seven under. Meanwhile, Ko, the world number three, was able to shake off a sluggish start, masterfully hitting the par-five sixth hole and following up with consecutive birdies on the subsequent two holes. This strategic play catapulted her to the top of the leaderboard.
Despite losing two strokes to bogeys after the turn, Ko held her nerve, ending the tournament with a robust 69, and a total of 13-under par. It would be misguided to assume that this victory came effortlessly. In her own words, Ko confessed that the showdown with Hull was nerve-racking, although her familiarity with Hull’s game was an advantage.
“Sure, I was on edge. I had a desire to play well. However, having played with Charley and Jeeno numerous times over the past years, and them being among my favorite players, helped me keep my focus,” Ko said during the HSBC Women’s World Championship press conference. Despite the tension, she relished the pairing, lavishing praise on Hull’s game and acknowledging the enjoyable day on the course.
Ko confessed to being awe-struck by the talent of the players she was up against. “Their skill levels are impressive. But my strategy was to concentrate on my game and not get drawn into Hull’s tactics,” she elaborated. Ko finds the thrill of such competition exhilarating, confessing, “Yes, it’s nerve-wracking, but it’s also thrilling. It’s not every week we get to compete, and the ultimate goal is to be in contention more frequently. The more you do it, the more likely it is to happen eventually.”
Ko’s focus on her own game strategy rather than getting entangled in her competitors’ decisions proved to be a winning strategy. She was able to execute her shots with precision and confidence, ultimately securing a commanding four-stroke win and her 23rd LPGA title.
As for the financial rewards of her victory, Ko’s triumph at the 2025 HSBC Women’s World Championship was handsomely rewarded. From the total tournament purse of $2.4 million, Ko pocketed a cool $360,000. Meanwhile, runners-up Ayaka Furue and Jeeno Thitikul took home $195,302 each. Hull, Jin Hee Im, and Gaby Lopez, who tied for the fourth place, each received $104,318.
This win also elevated Ko on the All-Time Career Money List, surpassing Australian golfer Karrie Webb. She is now just under $2 million shy of the legendary golfer Annika Sorenstam‘s record. Still, in her characteristic humility, Ko made sure to express her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career. The victory in Singapore is another testament to her talent, grit, and determination.
