Jeeno Thitikul knows how to celebrate in style, especially when it comes to her birthday. The World No. 1 golfer put on a clinic during the second round of the Honda LPGA Thailand, firing a sizzling nine-under 63. Her performance in the sweltering heat was nothing short of spectacular, featuring seven birdies and a memorable eagle that sent her soaring up the leaderboard in front of an adoring home crowd.
The fans were in high spirits, serenading Thitikul with “Happy Birthday” at every opportunity, particularly after her impressive eagle putt on the 7th hole. “They’re going to sing just for birdie putts,” the newly minted 23-year-old shared with a smile.
“It was amazing to hear so many happy birthdays. It’s a day filled with memories I’ll cherish forever.”
Currently, Thitikul is tied for second in the LPGA’s second event of the year, marking the first stop on the Asia swing. After an impressive opening-round 67, she sits at 14 under, trailing leader Somi Lee by three strokes. Lee, who was among the 29 different winners on the LPGA last season, leads at 17 under.
Thitikul has some ground to cover to catch Lee, and she’ll need to keep an eye on the competition coming up behind her. Notably, Hall of Famer Lydia Ko and Chizzy Iwai, both winners last year, are just four shots off the lead.
Reflecting on her performance, Thitikul said, “It feels great, and I’ve carried good momentum from yesterday into today. It’s even better than I expected.”
Last season, Thitikul was a dominant force, capturing three victories and earning the Rolex Player of the Year title for the second year running. She capped off the year with a win at the CME Group Tour Championship and secured a solid tie for seventh at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, a weather-shortened event that World No. 2 Nelly Korda won to kick off the new season.