If the 2025 LPGA season needed one more storyline to cap its unpredictable run, Youmin Hwang delivered it. The 22-year-old from South Korea, competing on a sponsor exemption, closed with a 5-under 67 at Hoakalei Country Club to finish 17-under and win the Lotte Championship by one shot over Hyo Joo Kim.

The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship was already abbreviated, at 54 holes instead of the usual 72, but this year it became a single round. Overnight storms turned Pinnacle Country Club into a swamp (with more between Friday and Saturday), leaving the LPGA with no choice but to freeze the leaderboard. Japan’s Minami Katsu and American Sarah Schmelzel both carded 63s to finish at eight under.

There was a silence on the 18th green at TPC River's Bend late Sunday. This wasn't the kind of Sunday for ice cream at Charley's Mini Golf. Spectators weren't whispering; they were holding their breath. Charley Hull found herself with a short putt to win her third LPGA event, yet the story wasn't just about her ball. It was also about one that had just rolled and rolled far too many times off the putter of the world's best player. Jeeno Thitikul had just four-putted from a range that should've been routine, her last stroke a decelerated push. It was a tragedy that makes even casual fans wince and think to themselves, "She's one of us."

Thursday's Round 1 at the Kroger Queen City Championship was shared by two players, but we'll address the baller first.

On June 26th, the LPGA and Dow put a new marker down with the Dow Impact Award, an honor that recognizes players not just for the tournament trophies they collect but for the reach of their work away from the tour.