Lilia Vu is back at Siam Country Club in Chon Buri for the Honda LPGA Thailand, a tournament that holds special significance for her as it marks the site of her first LPGA Tour victory and the beginning of a remarkable career run.
Vu clinched the title at this event in 2023 with a stunning final round, leading to three more wins on the LPGA Tour that season, including two major championships, and propelling her to the top of the world rankings.
At a press conference prior to this year’s tournament, Vu discussed the dramatic changes in her life since that breakthrough win. “I think it’s changed so much,” she said. “Now I even have a cat, which was one of my bribes with my dad if I won another tournament. It’s been fun learning my game and figuring out what works for me.”
Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, she admitted, “Last year wasn’t that great due to an injury. I was just trying to push through the season without causing further harm. I felt like I was tanking towards the end, losing strength and momentum.”
Vu reminisced about her pivotal final round in 2023, recalling how focused and determined she felt. “I remember being so locked in,” she said. “Even though I was far behind, I kept my head down and focused on making birdies. When I checked the leaderboard on 15, I just aimed to stay in my lane and do my best, whether I won or not.”
The 2023 Honda LPGA Thailand was Vu’s season opener, and she had not secured a tournament victory in her first two years on the circuit. Starting the final round six shots behind 54-hole leader Natthakritta Vongtaveelap, Vu capitalized on her opponent’s struggles, carding an impressive eight birdies without a bogey, ultimately winning by one stroke.
Just a month later, Vu celebrated her first major title at the Chevron Championship, followed by her second major win at the AIG Women’s Open. However, an injury later led to inconsistent performances in 2024. Despite this, Vu managed to claim her fifth victory at the Meijer LPGA Classic and finished just behind in a strong second-place tie at the AIG Women’s Open.
As she looks forward to the Honda LPGA Thailand, Vu’s determination and experience will be key as she aims to make another mark on the tournament and continue her impressive journey in professional golf.
