Seoul, Korea: Kim Hyo-joo was looking forward to letting her hair down after claiming a popular home victory in the inaugural Aramco Team Series presented by PIF – Korea.

The Korean LPGA star joined the Ladies European Tour (LET) event to tee it up at New Korea Country Club in Seoul in front of her devoted fans. And they were rewarded with a performance to remember. 

Resuming her second round after rain stopped play on Saturday, Kim moved to six-under-par, setting up a blockbuster final grouping with Mariajo Uribe (-4) and Charley Hull (-3). 

Despite a strong start from Hull, Kim remained focused and stepped up a gear on the back nine, with birdies on 14, 16 and 17 putting her in the driving seat. 

“Playing alongside Charley certainly brought out my competitive edge,” said Kim, whose 10-under aggregate was three ahead of England’s Hull.

“When there are so many birdies in a group, it elevates everyone’s competitive spirit, and I think it worked pretty well for me. Thanks to Charley, I was able to focus even more.

“I’m happy to have won. It was my first victory at an LET tournament, and it felt special to now have a winning record on each Tour. I’m now going to have a two-day party in Korea, before I get back to practice.”

A former Queen Sirikit Cup team and individual winner, Kim was in relaxed mood throughout the week, starting with the Pro-Am in which she was partnered with Korea Golf Association President Kang Hyung-mo, a Board member of the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation.

Meanwhile, the final day’s early morning session also saw an exciting conclusion to the team event with Danielle Kang’s team holding off the challenge of Team Uribe, who claimed the title with a score of 23-under-par. 

Kang said: “Golf is often seen as an individual sport, so playing as a team was refreshing. The support from team-mates makes a big difference, especially mentally.

“Personally, I prefer the team format as it motivates me to perform better for the team rather than just myself. It feels more fulfilling than winning alone.” 

For Hull, who recorded a string of five birdies in seven holes on the front nine, there were plenty of positives as she continues her bid for a first win since 2022. 

After posting a closing four-under 68, Hull said: “It’s a tricky course, and the greens are tough, they’re very slopey, so you have to hit it in the right sides.

“But I played well and I’m happy with the round. Hoo-jyo [Kim] kind of ran away with it in the end, and she holed some great putts.”

The Aramco Team Series presented by PIF will next head to London from July 3-5. 

*Golf Saudi is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.