The 2024 LPGA LOTTE Championship unfolded from September 29 to October 4 at Hoakalei Country Club on O'ahu, Hawai'i, drawing an impressive field of 120 players from 26 different countries. A Lim Kim from Korea emerged victorious, finishing the tournament at an impressive 18-under 270, after closing out with a 4-under 68 on the final day.
Kim's performance was highlighted by her strategic gameplay, which saw her hold a slim lead over Russian competitor Nataliya Guseva, who wrapped up the event at 16-under 272. Commenting on her victory, Kim expressed her excitement, stating, "It was super fun. I haven't felt this way in a long time. Honestly, my focus always same. Not focus on result. It's focus on my process, and then routine, and then thinking, and choose my line and then go."
This year marked Kim's third appearance in the LOTTE Championship, and her win represents her second LPGA Tour title. She was awarded the tournament's top prize of $450,000, presented by Seong-Hyun Hong, CEO of Daehong Communications, along with an Honorary Lifetime Membership to Hoakalei Country Club from Ken Terao, Executive Director and General Manager.
Entering the final round with a one-stroke advantage over Guseva, Kim dispelled any nerves she may have felt by breaking a six-hole streak of pars with a birdie on the par-5 18th hole. Her win not only signifies a personal achievement but also boosted her standing in the Race to CME Globe, propelling her from 65th to 22nd place. Her performance has earned her a spot in the prestigious 60-player season finale which will reward a $4 million prize to the champion.
Auston Kim from Florida finished in third place at 15 under after carding a 67 on the final day. Japan's Nasa Hataoka also put in a solid performance, finishing one stroke behind Auston with a score of 14 under. Two other Japanese players, Yuri Yoshida and Ryann O'Toole from California, finished strong at 13 under after scores of 69 and 70, respectively.
In what was an emotional farewell, Angela Stanford announced her retirement following her final LPGA Tour event. She concluded her tournament with a 71 to tie for 26th at 5 under. The Texan veteran was celebrated at the end of her round with a flower lei, champagne, and a cake, marking a bittersweet end to her career.
As the championship concluded, anticipation is already building for the 2025 LPGA LOTTE Championship, which is set to return to the picturesque Hoakalei Country Club next year. The tournament epitomizes not only the spirit of competitive golf but also the tradition and aloha of Hawai'i’s golfing culture.
Stay tuned for updates on next year’s event!
ALOHA!