The Rise of a Golfing Phenom: Jeeno Thitikul Dominates the LPGA Scene
The world of women’s golf has a new queen, and her name is Jeeno Thitikul. At just 22 years old, this Thai sensation has not only secured her second consecutive LPGA season title but has also etched her name into the history books. But here’s where it gets even more impressive: Thitikul’s dominance in 2025 wasn’t just about winning—it was about breaking records that stood for over two decades. And this is the part most people miss: her scoring average of 68.681 surpassed the legendary Annika Sorenstam’s 2002 record of 68.697, setting a new LPGA single-season benchmark. How’s that for a breakthrough?
Thitikul’s triumph at the CME Group Tour Championship in Naples, Florida, marked her third victory of the season, finishing four strokes ahead of compatriot Pajaree Anannarukarn and six strokes clear of world No. 2 Nelly Korda. Korda, who herself rewrote record books in 2024 with five consecutive LPGA wins, couldn’t help but marvel at Thitikul’s achievement. “It’s kind of crazy,” Korda admitted. “To beat a record that stood since 2002—it’s insane.”
But Thitikul’s journey to the top wasn’t without its hurdles. In September, she suffered a heartbreaking collapse at the Kroger Queen City Championship, four-putting from 50 feet on the final hole to lose the title. “I cried so bad,” she recalled. “But I reminded myself that happiness and sadness are part of life. What happens in my career doesn’t define who I am.” Just weeks later, she bounced back, proving her mental toughness is as formidable as her swing.
Controversially, though, one question lingers: Can Thitikul’s dominance continue, especially with Korda’s winless 2025 season raising eyebrows? While Korda remains a force with nine top-10 finishes in 19 starts, Thitikul’s rise to world No. 1 has shifted the spotlight. Yet, Korda’s resilience is undeniable. “Success is never linear,” she reflected, hinting at a potential comeback in 2026.
The LPGA itself is undergoing a transformation. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the tour welcomed new commissioner Craig Kessler, who’s already making waves with marketing partnerships and strategic changes. Meanwhile, the circuit saw a record 26 different champions in 26 events before Thitikul ended the streak in Shanghai, showcasing the tour’s depth of talent.
Despite her historic season, Thitikul’s resume has one glaring omission: a major championship. With nine major top-10 finishes since 2022, she came agonizingly close at the Evian Championship, losing in a playoff. But she’s not sweating it. “I’m proud of what I’ve achieved,” she said. “Hopefully, there’s a better chance in the future.”
Comparing Thitikul to Sorenstam is inevitable. At 22, Thitikul is already outpacing the all-time great in certain stats, though Sorenstam didn’t win her first major until 24. With 72 LPGA titles and 10 majors to her name, Sorenstam’s legacy is towering. But Thitikul’s trajectory suggests she’s just getting started.
Here’s the burning question for you: Can Jeeno Thitikul surpass Annika Sorenstam’s legacy, or is it too early to crown her the greatest? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
