Jeeno Thitikul, the 22-year-old Thai golfer, has reclaimed the World No.1 position in women’s golf, ending Nelly Korda’s 72-week reign atop the rankings. Thitikul’s strong performance at the 2025 AIG Women’s Open in Wales, where she finished two shots ahead of Korda, secured her return to the top spot after previously holding it briefly in 2022.

Details of the AIG Women’s Open and Ranking Changes

Thitikul completed rounds of 70, 73, 72, and 74, finishing tied for 30th place, while Korda carded a total of one-over-par and tied for 36th with rounds of 70, 72, 74, and 75. Korda needed to finish ahead of Thitikul at Royal Porthcawl to maintain her World No.1 ranking, but ultimately fell short. This marked the end of Korda’s continuous presence as the number one player for over 17 months, one of the longest streaks in women’s golf history.

Nelly Korda’s Time at the Top: A Timeline

Korda first ascended to the top of the rankings in June 2021, remaining there for 17 weeks before losing the spot. She regained World No.1 later that year in November, holding it for 12 weeks. She briefly held the position again during two shorter periods in late 2022 and early 2023. Korda’s longest stretch came after her victory at the LPGA Drive On Championship in March 2024, which saw her hold the rank for 72 consecutive weeks, concluding at the 2025 AIG Women’s Open.

Jeeno Thitikul’s Recent Successes Fuel Her Rise

Thitikul’s consistent play throughout the 2025 season has placed her at the top of the Race to CME Globe Rankings, with ten top-15 finishes so far. Highlights include winning the Mizuho Americas Open and securing second-place finishes at the Amundi Evian Championship and the HSBC Women’s World Championship. In late 2024, she also won the Saudi Ladies International on the Ladies European Tour and the CME Group Tour Championship, the LPGA season finale.

The Future of Women’s Golf Rankings

Thitikul’s return as World No.1 represents a significant change in women’s professional golf, reflecting her steady improvement and strong form this season. Meanwhile, Korda’s remarkable run remains a testament to her consistency and competitiveness. As the new season unfolds, both players’ performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts as they vie for the top ranking and major titles.

“I am honored to be back at No.1 and look forward to continuing my journey in women’s golf.” —Jeeno Thitikul, Golfer