In an exhilarating showdown at the LPGA Malaysia Championship, Celine Boutier emerged as the victor after a grueling 27-hole playoff against Atthaya Thitikul. It was a marathon final day that showcased Boutier’s exceptional skill and determination, allowing her to claim her fourth title of the season.
With a superb final round score of 8-under 64, Boutier surged ahead of the leaderboard to finish the tournament at an impressive 21-under. This tied her with Thitikul, who shot a commendable 4-under 68 on Sunday. Despite numerous opportunities for both players to secure victory throughout the playoff, it was Boutier who ultimately seized the moment on the ninth playoff hole.
Reflecting on the intense battle, Boutier expressed her surprise at the length of the playoff, stating, “I didn’t expect it to be that long, to be honest… I knew she wasn’t going to make a mistake, so I had to go for it and give myself the best chances for birdies.”
On the final hole, Thitikul’s birdie putt narrowly missed its mark, opening the door for Boutier. Unfazed by the pressure, the Frenchwoman seized the opportunity and sank a crucial six-foot birdie to claim the crown.
Adding to the day’s challenges was a 90-minute weather delay before the playoff commenced. During this time, Boutier maintained her focus, finding solace in the quiet of the locker room. This level of concentration and resolve became evident as she remained steadfast from hole to hole during the playoff.
Boutier’s breakthrough 2023 season has been nothing short of remarkable, with six LPGA wins in total. Preceding her recent victory, she had already secured wins at the LPGA Drive On Championship in March, followed by back-to-back triumphs at the Evian Championship, her first major title, and the Women’s Scottish Open.
As the LPGA’s Asian Swing draws to a close, all eyes now turn to the upcoming Toto Classic in Japan, which promises further thrilling moments on the tour.
Celine Boutier’s relentless pursuit of excellence, unwavering focus, and remarkable talent were on full display during the marathon playoff at the LPGA Malaysia Championship. Her victory serves as a testament to her exceptional abilities as a golfer and solidifies her place amongst golf’s top contenders.
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