In a thrilling conclusion to the Saudi Ladies International golf tournament, Thai player Atthaya Thitikul emerged victorious with an impressive 16-under-par performance. The event, held at Riyadh Golf Club, saw England's Annabell Fuller secure her best-ever finish on the Ladies European Tour by claiming third place. Despite a valiant effort, Fuller fell short of catching Thitikul, who maintained her lead throughout the final round. South Korea’s So-mi Lee finished second, adding depth to the competitive leaderboard. Fuller’s strong finish included a flurry of birdies in the closing holes, demonstrating her resilience and skill under pressure.
The Saudi Ladies International tournament concluded with Thitikul sealing the win after a consistent three-under-par final round of 69. Her dominant performance over the 54-hole competition was marked by strategic play and precision. Meanwhile, Fuller showcased remarkable improvement during the tournament. After starting with rounds of 66 and 68, she battled through challenging conditions on the final day, dropping shots on the front nine but recovering with three birdies in her last four holes. This surge allowed her to finish at 11-under-par, one shot ahead of a group tied at 10-under-par. Fuller expressed her excitement about the experience, noting the valuable lessons learned from playing alongside Thitikul.
Other notable performances came from fellow English players. Charley Hull closed the tournament with a solid round of 68, tying for eighth place at nine-under-par. Hull’s consistent play contributed to a strong showing for the English contingent. The tournament highlighted the growing competitiveness in women's golf, with players from various countries showcasing their talents on the global stage. The event also provided valuable exposure for emerging stars like Fuller, who is rapidly making a name for herself on the tour.
Fuller’s third-place finish marks a significant milestone in her career. She reflected on the challenges faced during the tournament, particularly the tough weather conditions, which tested the players' endurance and adaptability. Despite not securing the top spot, Fuller emphasized the importance of learning from experienced competitors like Thitikul. Her performance bodes well for future tournaments, as she continues to refine her game and build on this achievement. The tournament proved to be a memorable experience for all participants, setting the stage for more exciting competitions in the coming season.