Linnea Strom hit a record-breaking 11-under 60, the lowest final-round score in LPGA Tour history, to come from a seven-shot deficit and secure a maiden LPGA Tour title.
The 27-year-old entered the final round in New Jersey in last place tied-52nd with less than a 0.1% chance of winning the tournament. However, the Swede sunk nine birdies and one eagle to set a new record and claim a remarkable first win on the LPGA Tour.
“Honestly, really did not expect this waking up today,” Strom said. “This is proof that you should never give up. Just go out there and give it your all.”
“I think I just tried to do as well as I could and I honestly didn’t think I was playing for winning,” Strom added; “I mean, obviously, always want to win in the back of your head, but I just tried to put a good score out there today. I’m very proud of how I handled myself all around today.”
Strom’s comeback win was the largest final-round recovery on the LPGA Tour surpassing Ayako Okamoto’s record of overcoming a 23-stroke deficit from joint 23rd place in 1987.
American Megan Khang, Strom’s nearest challenger, had the opportunity to force a play-off but failed to hole a chip to end in joint-second alongside Japan’s Ayaka Furure.
What is the next event?
The next event on the LPGA Tour schedule is the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give taking place between 13-16 June at Blythefield Country Club in Michigan.