South Korean star Hyo Joo Kim captures third consecutive LPGA title with sudden-death victory over Lilia Vu in Phoenix.
Hyo Joo Kim claimed her third consecutive LPGA Tour victory on Sunday at the Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass, defeating Lilia Vu in a playoff at Whirlwind Golf Club in Phoenix.
Both players finished 72 holes at 22-under par, setting up a sudden-death playoff that would determine the champion. Kim made the decisive move on the first playoff hole, the par-4 18th, where she carded a birdie with a 3-wood approach shot, while Vu managed only a par with a 4.
Dominant Closing Stretch for Kim
The victory marks Kim’s third straight title on the LPGA Tour, cementing her status as one of the circuit’s hottest players heading into the busy spring schedule. Her ability to convert under pressure in the playoff demonstrated the composure required at the sport’s highest level.
The final leaderboard showed a competitive field, with Patty Tavatanakit claiming third place at 21-under par. Patcharapa Thitikul finished fourth at 20-under, while Meghan Duncan took fifth at 19-under.
Strong Finishes Down the Stretch
A five-way tie for sixth place at 18-under included Lydia Ko of New Zealand, Momoka Baba of Japan, Patina Noh, Gaby Lopez of Mexico, and Mi Hyang Lee of South Korea. The depth of talent on display underscored the competitive nature of modern professional women’s golf.
Nelly Korda, who had been co-leading heading into the final stretch, faded from contention down the back nine, a reminder that maintaining consistency over 72 holes remains the ultimate challenge in professional golf.
Kim’s performance in Phoenix adds another significant chapter to her 2026 season and positions her well for the tournaments ahead on the LPGA schedule.