After shooting a 75 (+3) on Saturday, Youmin Hwang shot a final round 67 (-5) to win the LOTTE Championship. The sponsor’s exemption defeated fellow Korean Hyo Joo Kim by one stroke for her first win on the LPGA Tour.
Hwang entered her final round as one of eight players trailing Akie Iwai by one shot. After nine holes at even par, and Hyo Joo Kim at 3-under through nine, it appeared Kim would be on her way to victory. However, Hwang caught fire, making five birdies in her final six holes to snatch the trophy away from Kim. With her win, Hwang becomes the 26th different winner on tour this season. She had this to say about competing on the LPGA Tour.
“So it was an honor for me that I can play with strong players in the LPGA, and I actually watched their play on the green and also learned a lot. Personally, I really tried to perform well,” she said.
Hwang, who is currently a member of the KLPGA, is eligible for membership on the LPGA Tour. She can choose to accept it immediately or defer to the 2026 season.
Nelly Korda finished T4 this week after four rounds below 70. Korda is still searching for her first win this season. Although she did not win, Korda is motivated to keep going.
“It was nice to be in contention. The end goal always without saying, for everyone in this field is to lift that trophy on Sunday. Falling a little bit short, definitely motivated. Have some work to do and have a couple more events to end off the season,” she said.
Hwang earned $450,000 in prize money but will not earn any points in the Race to CME Globe because she is not a member.
The LPGA Tour will resume next week in China at the Buick LPGA Shanghai. Ruoning Yin will look to defend her title after her dominant six-stroke victory last year.
Disclaimer: Some quotes may have been lightly edited for clarity.
