Rookie Kim Min-sol wins third title, surpasses 900 million won in season earnings

Rookie sensation Kim Min-sol continues her dominant performance on the Korean LPGA (KLPGA) Tour, clinching her third win of the season at the McCol·Moana Yongpyong Open. The 20-year-old secured the title after a tense two-hole playoff against veteran Choi Ye-rim.

“

Winning is never easy.

Kim carded a final round 2-under-par 70, finishing tied with Choi at 12-under-par 204. The playoff saw Kim sink a crucial 3.6-meter birdie putt on the second extra hole, while Choi could only manage par, sealing Kim's victory. This latest triumph follows her wins at the iM Bank Open in April and the Korea Women's Open just two weeks prior.

“

I told myself to just do my best and have fun, and my play started to come together.

With this victory, Kim has solidified her position atop the season's standings. She now leads in prize money, having surpassed 900 million won (approximately $650,000 USD), and also holds the top spot in both the Player of the Year points race and the Rookie of the Year standings. Her performance suggests she is on track to sweep all major individual awards this season.

“

I never dreamed of winning three times in the first half of the season. I want to work harder and finish the rest of the season well.

Reflecting on her challenging round, Kim admitted, "Winning is never easy." She noted a slow start on the front nine but found her rhythm on the back nine. "I told myself to just do my best and have fun, and my play started to come together," she said after the tournament. Kim also expressed gratitude for her family's support, particularly her brother who attended the event.

“

My family gave me a lot of support, so I think I won.