Lee Da-yeon stages dramatic comeback for 10th KLPGA win

Lee Da-yeon, nicknamed 'Ottugyi' (roly-poly toy), staged a dramatic comeback to win the KLPGA Tour's Aurora World Championship, marking her 10th career victory. The 29-year-old golfer carded a 3-under-par 69 in the final round, including an eagle and four birdies, to finish at 12-under-par 276.

She edged out Kim Su-ji by a single stroke to claim the 180 million won ($135,000) prize. This win comes just over 11 months after her previous victory at the Hana Financial Group Championship in September.

Lee's journey to her 10th win, achieved in her 10th year on the KLPGA Tour since her debut in 2016, has been marked by significant adversity. She has undergone surgeries for a left ankle injury in 2017 and left wrist and elbow injuries in 2022. Last year, she was also involved in a traffic accident. Despite these setbacks, Lee has consistently shown resilience, embodying her nickname by overcoming challenges to return to the top.

With this victory, Lee becomes the 17th player in KLPGA history to reach the 10-win milestone. Reflecting on her journey, Lee expressed, "There were many difficult times, including surgeries and early season retirements. I am grateful to have overcome them."

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There were many difficult times, including surgeries and early season retirements. I am grateful to have overcome them.