Grace Kim Clinches Maiden Major in Dramatic Evian Playoff
The 2025 edition of The Amundi Evian Championship came to a thrilling conclusion on Sunday, July 13, as Grace Kim captured the first Major title of her career in a dramatic playoff against Atthaya Thitikul.
At just 24 years old, the Australian — ranked 99th in the world — pulled off one of the most remarkable victories in the tournament’s history. With a clutch eagle on the 18th hole, she became the first player outside the world’s top 50 to win at Evian since it was elevated to Major status.
Facing her in the playoff, Atthaya Thitikul delivered a brilliant performance, carding a final-round 67 (-4) to force extra holes, but was ultimately edged out by Kim’s composure and precision in the second playoff frame.
Among the week’s standout stories was the sensational breakthrough of Lottie Woad, the world’s No. 1 amateur. The 21-year-old Englishwoman finished third overall in her Major debut, earning the Silver Medal as leading amateur, along with a direct LPGA Tour card — the first ever granted under a new exemption pathway introduced this year.
Under a sun-soaked Sunday sky, the 31st edition of the Championship once again lived up to its reputation for drama, elegance, and elite-level golf. From Minjee Lee, who came close to a second Evian title, to inspired performances from Ruixin Liu, Nastasia Nadaud, and Gabriela Ruffels, the week was filled with unforgettable moments.
With this victory, Grace Kim not only etched her name into the history books of Evian — she may well have taken the first step into the next chapter of her career at the very top of the game.
