Mao Saigo Wins Chevron Championship in Epic 5-Player Playoff for First Major Title
Mao Saigo captured her first Major title at the Chevron Championship, prevailing in a dramatic five-way sudden-death playoff at The Club at Carlton Wood.
The tournament came down to a thrilling finish after Ariya Jutanugarn surrendered her late lead with a costly mistake at the 18th hole. Jutanugarn's whiffed chip shot dropped her into a tie at seven-under with Ruoning Yin, Hyo Joo Kim, Lindy Duncan, and Saigo.
Woman proudly holds golden trophy award
In the playoff, played on the 18th hole, each competitor had their chance:
- Yin narrowly missed an eagle attempt
- Kim's birdie putt missed left
- Duncan's par chip rolled wide
- Yin and Jutanugarn both suffered heartbreaking lip-outs
Saigo, playing last, calmly rolled in her birdie putt to secure the victory and her maiden Major championship.
Earlier in the day, overnight co-leaders Saigo and Hae Ran Ryu struggled, with Ryu falling out of contention after going four-over through six holes. Jutanugarn had seemed poised for her third Major title before her costly error on the final hole opened the door for the historic five-way playoff.
The victory marks a significant milestone in Saigo's career and adds her name to the prestigious list of Major champions in women's golf.