Kiwi Lydia Ko and Australian Jason Day emerged victorious in the inaugural Grant Thornton Invitational held in Naples, Florida. The golfing duo showcased their skills and determination, overcoming stiff competition to clinch the title.
Going into the final round, Ko and Day held a two-stroke lead over their closest rivals, Americans Nellie Korda and Tony Finau. With the pressure mounting, the pair demonstrated nerves of steel, fending off a late surge from Canadians Brooke Henderson and Corey Conners to seal the victory.
In a scintillating display of golf, Ko and Day recorded a final round score of 66, finishing the tournament at an impressive 24-under overall at the Tiburon Golf Club. Henderson and Conners were their closest competitors, trailing just one stroke behind at 25-under.
Although the Grant Thornton Invitational does not contribute points towards the official tour events, the win holds immense significance for Ko. It marks her first tournament victory of the year and comes as a timely boost amid a challenging 2023 season.
Throughout the year, Ko has encountered struggles that have seen her slip outside the top-10 world rankings and barely retain her LPGA tour card. However, her tenacity and determination have shone through, resulting in this impressive triumph.
Reflecting on the momentous victory, Ko expressed her joy and relief. She said, It’s been a tough year for me personally, but to finish with a win alongside Jason is incredible. It gives me the confidence and motivation I need going into the next season.
Day, who has also faced setbacks in recent times, echoed Ko’s sentiments. He emphasized the significance of partnering with Ko and hailed their teamwork, saying, Lydia played phenomenally, and it was a pleasure to be her partner. We supported each other throughout the tournament, and it paid off in the end.
The Grant Thornton Invitational, with an overall prize purse of $4 million, witnessed the seamless collaboration between the PGA Tour (men) and LPGA Tour (women). This highly anticipated joint promotion rekindles memories of the 1999 JC Penney Classic when John Daly and Laura Davies emerged victorious.
The tournament’s format involved a modified four-ball round on the final day. Both players teed off and then switched balls for the remainder of the hole, with the lower score being counted. This unique format added an exciting twist to the competition, thrilling both the players and fans alike.
As Ko and Day revel in their well-deserved victory, they will share a prize of $1 million. This remarkable triumph not only showcases their exceptional golfing prowess but also lays the foundation for future achievements in their respective careers.
This historic win for Ko and Day serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the sport and the boundless possibilities that arise when talented athletes unite. As the golfing world bids farewell to 2023, fans eagerly anticipate the exhilarating contests and memorable moments that lie ahead in the seasons to come.
