Jin Hee Im and Somi Lee Clinch Dow Championship,Lexi thompson’s Wait Continues
Midland,Mich. – In a dramatic finish at Midland Country Club, Jin Hee Im and Somi Lee teamed up to seize the Dow Championship title on Sunday. Their victory came after an intense playoff, thwarting Lexi thompson’s bid for her first LPGA Tour win in six years.
im sealed the victory with an remarkable 8-foot birdie putt during the first playoff hole.
Close Calls and Clutch Putts
Megan Khang, Thompson’s partner, narrowly missed a 5-foot birdie putt that could have extended the playoff.
Earlier,Thompson sank an 8-foot birdie putt on the par-3 18th,while Khang faced a critical 6-foot birdie attempt. The American duo finished with a 10-under 60 in the four-ball format, setting the initial target at 20-under 260.
Lee had earlier made a clutch 10-foot birdie putt on the 17th to tie for the lead. Despite missing birdie opportunities on the 18th in regulation, Im and Lee found redemption in the playoff.
Playoff Drama Unfolds
The playoff format shifted to foursomes, adding another layer of pressure. Thompson’s tee shot on the 18th landed just 5 feet from the cup. Lee responded, placing her shot closer but 8 feet long, ultimately setting up Im for the title-winning putt.
“Bummer to miss the last one in the playoff to force another hole, but very happy how we played,” Khang commented, acknowledging the narrow defeat.
Thompson’s Pursuit of Victory
thompson’s last victory was at the ShopRite LPGA Classic in 2019. Having reduced her playing schedule last summer, the Dow Championship marked her eighth tournament this year.
For Im and Lee, in their second year on the LPGA Tour, this win marked their first american title. Both golfers have impressive records on the Korea LPGA, with Im boasting six KLPGA victories and Lee holding five.
“I can’t believe it,” Lee exclaimed on the 18th green, overwhelmed by their achievement.
Other Notable Performances
Lindy duncan and Miranda Wang impressed with a 59 in the better-ball format, tying for third place, just two shots shy of the playoff. They shared the spot with Manon De Roey and Pauline Roussin-Bouchard, who carded a 64.
Albane Valenzuela and Sarah Schmelzel, who led after 54 holes, struggled to maintain their momentum, closing with a 66 and failing to make birdie on the final seven holes, finishing fifth.
What’s Next for Lexi Thompson?
thompson has not yet announced her next tournament appearance. The upcoming Evian Championship in France,a major,is one she has consistently skipped since 2019.
Did You Know? The Dow Championship stands out as the only official team event on the LPGA schedule.
The Dow Championship provides a unique, team-based competition within the individual-focused world of professional golf.
Dow Championship: Final Standings
| Position | Players | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jin Hee Im & Somi Lee | -20 |
| 2 | Lexi Thompson & Megan Khang | -20 |
| 3 | Lindy Duncan & Miranda Wang | -18 |
| 3 | Manon De Roey & Pauline Roussin-Bouchard | -18 |
| 5 | Albane Valenzuela & Sarah Schmelzel | -17 |
The Rise of Team golf in the LPGA
The Dow Championship’s team format offers a distinct contrast to the typical individual stroke play events that dominate the LPGA Tour. This unique structure not only fosters camaraderie among players but also presents a different strategic challenge.
Team golf events are gaining popularity,offering fans a refreshing change of pace and highlighting the collaborative aspect of a sport often perceived as solitary.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to team dynamics! Success in events like the Dow Championship often hinges on how well partners complement each other’s strengths and mitigate weaknesses.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dow Championship
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who won the Dow Championship in 2025?
Jin Hee Im and Somi Lee of South Korea secured the title after a thrilling playoff victory.
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Where was the 2025 Dow Championship held?
the tournament took place at Midland Country Club in Midland, Michigan.
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What makes the Dow Championship unique?
It is indeed the only official team event on the LPGA schedule.
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How long has it been since Lexi Thompson’s last win?
Thompson has not won since 2019, making this a important drought for the star player.
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What format was used in the playoff?
The playoff switched to a foursomes format, adding extra pressure and strategy to the competition.
What are your thoughts on team events in golf? Share your comments below!
