Jeeno Thitikul delivered an exceptional performance at the PIF Saudi Ladies International, securing her 17th professional title with a final-round score of 69 to finish at 16-under par. The Thai golfer, who celebrates her 22nd birthday next week, began the final day with a three-shot lead and never looked back, extending her advantage with four birdies over the first 10 holes. Despite a single bogey on the back nine, Thitikul’s commanding performance ensured her a dominant victory.
Thitikul’s triumph follows a successful start to her season and mirrors the victory of her fellow Thai golfer, Patty Tavatanakit, who won the event in Riyadh the previous year. The win also marks a milestone in Thitikul’s career as she kicks off the year in impressive form.
“It’s the best present I’ve ever received,” Thitikul shared after the win. “After a long offseason without tournaments, I didn’t expect to win my first event of the year, but this victory gives me great confidence. My team has worked hard, and this win shows we’re on the right track.”
The tournament, held at the Riyadh Golf Club, boasted a $5 million prize pool and matched the men’s PIF Saudi International event in prestige. South Korea’s Somi Lee finished in second place, carding a two-under-par 70. England’s Annabell Fuller, recovering from a challenging start, claimed third with a final score of one-over par.
Fuller, who had a solid showing last week, earned $270,000 for her efforts, describing the prize as life-changing for her career. “Golf isn’t cheap, and neither is traveling. This kind of tournament really helps make a career sustainable,” she noted.
The PIF Saudi Ladies International has been instrumental in elevating women’s golf, with significant investment from Golf Saudi and the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Thitikul herself acknowledged the importance of this backing, stating that the growth of women’s golf relies heavily on such initiatives. “Golf Saudi and PIF’s commitment to women’s golf is invaluable. The support is crucial for the next generation of players, and it’s wonderful to see such a high-level event organized here,” she added.
In addition to the individual competition, this year’s tournament introduced a new two-day team format, adding another layer of excitement and increasing the prize-winning potential. Somi Lee led her team to victory in this format, clinching the trophy on Friday.
With this victory, Thitikul not only continues to solidify her place as one of golf’s top talents but also highlights the growing importance of investment in women’s sports, particularly in golf.
