In a thrilling spectacle at The Club at Carlton Woods, Mao Saigo captured her first LPGA major title at the Chevron Championship, showing immense composure under intense pressure. At just 23 years old, Saigo rolled in a decisive birdie putt on the first playoff hole to secure her breakthrough victory.
Saigo’s Comeback
It wasn’t an easy path to victory for Saigo. She began Sunday tied for the lead but stumbled with five bogeys, slipping behind. However, a critical birdie on the par-5 18th hole in regulation allowed her to join a five-player playoff, along with:
- Hyo Joo Kim
- Ruoning Yin
- Ariya Jutanugarn
- Lindy Duncan
Despite shaky hands and overwhelming nerves, Saigo sank a three-foot birdie in the playoff, clinching the win with enviable calmness.
Playoff Drama
The playoff was filled with dramatic moments. Jutanugarn’s earlier stubbed chip and missed birdie opportunity, coupled with Yin’s narrowly missed eagle putt, shifted the focus to Saigo. Seizing the opportunity, she delivered under pressure to become the first Japanese player to win the Chevron Championship.
Reactions and Reflections
Saigo, smiling broadly, stated through an interpreter:
“This year, I was able to win and earn the LPGA title. I’m extremely excited.”
Meanwhile, Lindy Duncan, though disappointed, highlighted the positives of her performance, finishing with a strong top-five result despite still seeking her first LPGA Tour win. The day ended with Saigo and her team taking the traditional championship leap into Texas’ version of Poppie’s Pond — an exhilarating and slightly nerve-wracking experience for the modest swimmer.
Looking Ahead
With Saigo adding her name to the list of golf’s elite major champions, the 2025 LPGA season promises even more excitement. Although world No. 1 Nelly Korda finished tied for 14th and reflected on the fading glow of last year’s dominance, there’s no question the race for upcoming titles will be fierce.
For a deeper dive into the full story, visit the original ESPN article.
