BANGKOK • Lexi Thompson will tee off at this week's HSBC Women's Champions in Singapore as the top-ranked American golfer after her victory at the Honda LPGA tournament in Thailand.
She overcame an early scare yesterday before easing to a six-stroke victory that will lift her to No. 3 in the world rankings.
Thompson, who started the final round with a four-stroke advantage, carded a four-under 68 for a 268 total to register the seventh LPGA Tour win of her career and third title since July.
Playing partner Chun In Gee mounted an early assault with birdies on the first three holes that cut Thompson's lead to one shot.
But the South Korean bogeyed the fourth to double the 21-year-old's advantage at the top. And Chun was unable to get any closer once Thompson carded an eagle on the par-five 10th.
"I always try to stay aggressive and my goal was to get to 20 under today," Thompson told reporters after doing just that.
The Major champion will move behind Lydia Ko and Park In Bee in the latest rankings and feels honoured to find herself among such elevated company.
"It means the world to me," added Thompson, who will leapfrog compatriot Stacy Lewis today. "I may be out here representing myself but I am also representing my country.
"It's a huge year with the Olympics but I am just focused on my own game, not anyone else's and it's an honour and a privilege just to be out here following my dreams."
Chun overcame a double-bogey six on the 17th hole to birdie the last and claim second place on 274. She was one shot clear of American Jessica Korda, who shot a best-of-the-day 64, and defending champion Amy Yang (70) in a tie for third.
REUTERS
