The Kroger LPGA Championship delivered one of the most unforgettable finishes in recent golf history as Charley Hull clinched a dramatic victory following a heartbreaking collapse by the World No. 1 on the final hole. What was expected to be a routine conclusion to a dominant performance turned into chaos, leaving fans in disbelief and Hull standing tall as the unexpected champion. The stunning turn of events proved once again that in golf, no lead is safe until the last putt drops.
Heading into the final round, all eyes were on the World No. 1, who had maintained a steady lead for much of the tournament. Her precision, calm demeanor, and consistency throughout the week seemed to guarantee another victory to add to her already glittering resume. Meanwhile, Charley Hull, trailing by three strokes at the start of the day, kept herself within striking distance through sheer determination and fearless play. The English star, known for her aggressive approach and emotional resilience, played each hole as if it were her last, refusing to let the leader pull away.
As the final group made its way to the back nine, the atmosphere at the course grew electric. Hull birdied the 13th and 15th holes, closing the gap to just one shot. The World No. 1, clearly feeling the mounting pressure, began to show subtle cracks in her game — a missed fairway here, a tentative putt there. Still, as the two approached the 18th tee, the outcome seemed settled. The No. 1 held a one-shot lead, needing only a safe par to secure victory. What followed, however, will be remembered as one of the most shocking meltdowns in LPGA history.
The final hole — a straightforward par four — started with a shaky tee shot from the leader that veered slightly into the rough. Undeterred, she attempted a bold recovery shot that clipped the edge of a bunker, landing awkwardly in the sand. Hull, meanwhile, delivered a perfect drive down the middle of the fairway. The tension was palpable. On her third shot, the World No. 1 overcompensated, sending the ball past the green and into a difficult lie. The gallery gasped. She would go on to double-bogey the hole, leaving the door wide open for Hull.
Hull, staying composed under enormous pressure, executed a flawless approach shot that landed six feet from the pin. With the crowd holding its breath, she calmly sank the birdie putt, completing a three-shot swing that secured her the title. As the ball dropped into the cup, the crowd erupted in disbelief and admiration. Hull covered her face in her hands, visibly emotional, before raising her arms in triumph. It was a moment of pure redemption and resilience.
In the post-round interview, Hull fought back tears as she reflected on what the victory meant to her. “This was the toughest battle of my career,” she said softly. “I’ve come so close so many times, and to finally get it done like this — it’s beyond words. I didn’t want to win that way, but golf can be cruel. You have to be ready for anything until the very last shot.” Her honesty and humility struck a chord with fans around the world.
The World No. 1, visibly devastated, declined immediate interviews but later issued a statement congratulating Hull and taking responsibility for the late collapse. “It’s a tough pill to swallow,” she wrote. “I made mistakes when it mattered most, but that’s part of the game. Charley played incredible golf, and she deserved the win.” The statement drew praise from fellow players and fans alike, highlighting the sportsmanship that remains central to the LPGA’s spirit.
Analysts quickly began drawing comparisons between Hull’s victory and other legendary comebacks in golf history. Many noted her growth and maturity since earlier seasons, where flashes of brilliance were often overshadowed by inconsistency. This time, however, Hull displayed a balance of emotion and control that only the great champions possess. “Charley Hull proved today that she’s not just a talented player — she’s a fighter,” said former LPGA champion Cristie Kerr on live broadcast. “What we witnessed was mental strength at its finest.”
The win also reignites the fiery rivalry that has captivated fans throughout the season. Hull and the World No. 1 have battled head-to-head several times in 2025, exchanging victories and dramatic finishes. Their competitive dynamic has added a new layer of excitement to women’s golf, inspiring a new generation of fans and young players. “This rivalry pushes both of them to be better,” said LPGA commentator Judy Rankin. “It’s emotional, it’s raw, and it’s exactly what the sport needs.”
Off the course, social media exploded with reactions. Highlights of the final hole spread like wildfire, with fans expressing a mix of sympathy and awe. “That’s golf — beautiful and brutal all at once,” one fan tweeted. Others hailed Hull’s victory as a defining moment in her career, praising her perseverance after years of near-misses.
With this victory, Charley Hull not only earns one of the biggest titles of her career but also sends a powerful message about resilience and redemption. She moves up significantly in the world rankings, cementing her place among the elite. More importantly, she has reminded the world why golf is such a uniquely human sport — unpredictable, emotional, and capable of producing moments that stay with us forever.
As the sun set over the course and the crowds slowly dispersed, one thing became clear: Charley Hull’s triumph at the Kroger LPGA Championship was not just a victory. It was a story of courage, heartbreak, and the indomitable spirit of competition — a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
