Michelle Wie, the reigning HSBC Women's World Championship champion, confirmed yesterday that she is returning to Singapore next March to defend her title.

The American had ended a 1,351-day drought for a fifth LPGA Tour win on the Sentosa Golf Club's New Tanjong Course in March, holing a 45-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to seal a dramatic comeback victory.

HSBC also announced that it has extended its sponsorship of the event until 2020. It has backed the tournament since its inception in 2008 when it was staged at Tanah Merah Country Club for five years before moving to Sentosa.

"This event is a very special one to everyone on the tour. Working together, HSBC and the LPGA have built something unique," said Wie.

"I know that everyone will be excited to hear that HSBC has extended their commitment to this fantastic tournament."

The 28-year-old had begun the final day five strokes adrift of third-round leader Nelly Korda but produced an unblemished seven-under 65 to finish at 17-under 271 for the US$1.5 million (S$2 million) event, one stroke clear of Korda, Danielle Kang, Jenny Shin and Brooke Henderson.

HSBC Singapore chief executive officer Tony Cripps added: "We have enjoyed fantastic support from the players and we have always attracted the best of the best; just look at our previous winners, legends of the game from all corners of the globe...

"We are especially thankful to the Singapore Tourism Board for all of their support and for sharing our commitment to continue to grow this great event."

Lester Wong