Chanettee Wannasaen wins Portland Classic with impressive 9-under 63.
Teenager Chanettee Wannasaen Makes History with Stunning Victory at Portland Classic
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, 19-year-old Chanettee Wannasaen secured a memorable victory at the Portland Classic. Wannasaen, who had previously struggled in her rookie season, became the first Monday qualifier to win on the LPGA Tour since 2015.
Wannasaen’s final round was nothing short of extraordinary. She played a five-hole stretch in 6 under par, finishing with a near-flawless 9-under 63. Her exceptional performance earned her a four-stroke victory and the coveted trophy.
Reflecting on her achievement, Wannasaen expressed her pride and hard work, stating, ”I’m really proud of myself because I really work hard for the trophy.”
Ranked 367th and having missed nine consecutive cuts, Wannasaen’s triumph was a testament to her resilience and dedication. She credited her caddie for keeping her calm and composed throughout the tournament. With four stellar rounds in the 60s at Columbia Edgewater, she shattered the tournament scoring record by an impressive five strokes, finishing with a remarkable 26-under 262 total.
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When asked about her secret to success, Wannasaen emphasized her unwavering determination and hard work. She stated, “I don’t give up. Yeah, I don’t give up. I always work hard to improve my short game, my mind, and my overall play. I do everything to earn that trophy.”
Wannasaen’s victory marked only the third time a qualifier has won on the LPGA Tour. The last Monday qualifier to achieve this feat was Canada’s Brooke Henderson in 2015. The other qualifier to claim victory was American Laurel Kean in 2000.
Megan Khang, the third-round leader and winner of the CPKC Women’s Open, fell short in her bid for consecutive victories. Khang finished alone in sixth place at 19 under, acknowledging Wannasaen’s exceptional performance.
Wannasaen’s journey to victory was not without its challenges. She had previously lost in a playoff at the Epson Tour’s Circling Raven Championship. However, she credited the experience with boosting her confidence and preparing her for this remarkable win.
Xiyu Lin of China finished second with a 22-under 266 total, while Ruoning Yin (China), Gina Kim (USA), and Carlota Ciganda (Spain) tied for third, just one stroke behind.
Wannasaen’s charge to victory began with a remarkable stretch of birdies and an eagle, propelling her into the lead at 23 under. She maintained her composure throughout the round, adding more birdies to her total and increasing her lead to five strokes with four holes to play.
Expressing her admiration for the course, Wannasaen said, “I really like this course because I can make a lot of birdies. It’s a beautiful and amazing course. I really like it. This course allowed me to showcase my birdie-making abilities, something I haven’t been able to do for a long time.”
Although she faced a minor setback on the 72nd hole with a bogey, Wannasaen sealed her victory with a confident 10-foot par putt. Her final round was flawless, with only three missed greens in regulation.
Wannasaen’s triumph at the Portland Classic is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and unwavering spirit. As she celebrates her first LPGA Tour victory, the golfing world eagerly awaits her future accomplishments.
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