Grace Kim Claims 2025 Evian Championship in Playoff Victory

A Thrilling Conclusion to the 2025 Amundi Evian Championship
The 2025 Amundi Evian Championship, the fourth of five majors on the LPGA's 2025 schedule, reached a dramatic conclusion in France. The final round was filled with high-stakes moments, unexpected turns, and unforgettable performances that will be remembered for years to come.
Grace Kim Claims Victory in a Dramatic Playoff
In what became an instant classic, Grace Kim secured her second LPGA title after a thrilling playoff against World No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul. Kim’s performance on the final hole at Evian Resort Golf Club was nothing short of spectacular. She played the 18th hole in eagle, birdie, eagle to become the second straight Australian to win an LPGA major, defeating Thitikul in style.
Kim’s closing round of 67 put her in a playoff with Thitikul, and she delivered a remarkable approach shot from 188 yards that set up an eagle putt. Her ability to remain calm under pressure was evident as she described the moment of her winning putt: “I couldn't breathe, Tom. Yeah, I couldn't really see. I was like is it dead straight? Yeah. I'm hitting the putt. Glad it went in the hole.”
A Wild Finish and Unforgettable Moments
Kim’s journey to victory included a few dramatic twists. After stopping in her backswing due to a distraction, she hit a stunning approach shot into the 18th green. Meanwhile, Thitikul’s second shot landed near the back bunker. Kim then made a birdie after a second shot into the water, forcing Thitikul to drain a birdie putt to extend the playoff.
The playoff continued with Kim making a tap-in eagle on the 72nd hole, tying Thitikul at 14 under par. Thitikul had a short birdie putt on the par-5 18th but missed it by a hair, sealing Kim’s victory.
Lottie Woad’s Historic Run
Amateur Lottie Woad came close to making history, finishing at 13 under par. Although she fell just short of the win, she secured her LPGA card for the rest of 2025 and 2026. Woad’s performance was impressive, especially considering she started the day in 19th place, five shots behind the leaders.
Only two amateurs have won majors on the LPGA: Pat O'Sullivan in 1951 and Catherine Lacoste in 1967. Woad now has a chance to join this exclusive group, as she held a share of the lead with Thitikul at 13 under going into her 17th hole.
Other Notable Performances
Angel Yin, who won in Thailand earlier this year, posted a remarkable 63 in the final round, including three birdies and an eagle on the last three holes. Her performance gave her the clubhouse lead at 12 under.
Minjee Lee, a three-time major winner, finished at 11 under, trailing co-leaders Jeeno Thitikul and Woad by one stroke. Ariya Jutanugarn also joined the leaders after a strong finish, birding four holes in a row to reach 11 under.
Somi Lee dropped down to 9 under after a double bogey on the 10th hole, while former No. 1 Lilia Vu struggled, missing her fifth consecutive cut.
Key Details for Fans
The final round of the 2025 Amundi Evian Championship aired live on Golf Channel from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. ET. The tournament featured a $8 million purse, with the champion taking home $1.2 million.
Notable players who missed the cut include Lydia Ko, Ruoning Yin, In Gee Chun, and Lilia Vu. Ko, who won the Evian Championship at 18 in 2015, finished at 5 over par, while Vu continues to struggle after a poor season.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Amundi Evian Championship was a showcase of skill, determination, and drama. From Grace Kim’s incredible playoff victory to Lottie Woad’s historic run, the event delivered unforgettable moments for fans around the world. As the LPGA season continues, all eyes will be on these top players as they aim for more major titles in the coming months.
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