In her second year as a professional, Lee Dong-eun (21, SBI Savings Bank) achieved her first victory on the KLPGA (Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association) tour at a major tournament.
On the 15th, Lee Dong-eun became the champion of the 'DB Group 39th Korea Women's Open Golf Championship' (total prize money of 1.2 billion won, winner's prize of 300 million won) held at the RAINBOW Hills Country Club South and East Course (par 72, initial setting 6189m).
On that day, Lee Dong-eun submitted a scorecard with a total of 13 under par 274 (68-70-68-69). The second place, just one stroke behind, was claimed by rookie Kim Si-hyun.
Lee Dong-eun and Kim Si-hyun shared the lead at 10 under par through the third round. Both had the common background of being former national representatives. Kim Si-hyun was a national representative of the KGA (Korea Golf Association) in 2024, while Lee Dong-eun was in 2022. Moreover, the 'DB Group 39th Korea Women's Open Golf Championship' is a tournament co-hosted by the Korea Golf Association.
Lee Dong-eun and Kim Si-hyun also engaged in a tense competition in the final round. Kim Si-hyun recorded 4 birdies and 2 bogeys, while Lee Dong-eun achieved 4 birdies and 1 bogey. Lee Dong-eun's prior experience shone through in the final round.
The decisive blow came on the par 4 14th hole. After making a bogey on the previous hole and allowing a tie for the lead, Lee Dong-eun successfully made a long putt from 13.7 yards, leaving her competitor disheartened. It was a crucial moment that quelled Kim Si-hyun's momentum, who had just made a birdie on the 13th hole to begin her pursuit. Lee Dong-eun added another birdie on the par 5 16th hole, pushing Kim Si-hyun two strokes back.
Although Kim Si-hyun added a birdie on the 18th hole, there was no time left. However, she made her case as a promising rookie by finishing second for two consecutive weeks following the 'Celltrion Queens Masters' that ended on June 8.
In an interview with the SBS Golf broadcasting team, Lee Dong-eun expressed her delight, saying, "I believe that the process of failing to win last year was a stepping stone for my growth, and by persevering and being patient, I received a good result today."
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