JEONG Jihyun Overcomes Slump to Claim First Dream Tour Victory “The Best Parents’ Day Gift”

[THE CAPTURE=Kang Byeong-koo] JEONG Jihyun (22, Samchully) overcame a lengthy slump to capture the first KLPGA Dream Tour title of her career.

Competing at Muan Country Club in Jeollanam-do, JEONG fired a spectacular 6-under-par 66 in the final round to finish at 9-under-par 135, securing victory at the KLPGA 2026 Muan CC·All For You Dream Tour 5th Event.

Starting the day among the leaders, JEONG quickly took control of the tournament with an aggressive display of birdie-making. She opened with consecutive birdies on the 1st and 2nd holes before adding three more in a row from the 5th through the 7th holes, firmly placing herself at the center of the title race.

She continued her momentum with additional birdies on the 11th and 18th holes, completing a flawless final-round performance and securing a memorable victory.

Following the win, JEONG expressed both excitement and gratitude.

“When I heard that I had won, I felt like I was floating. It was surreal,” she said. “Today is Parents’ Day in Korea, so I’m especially happy that I could give my parents the best gift possible.”

The victory carried special significance for JEONG. After winning on the Jump Tour in 2023, she endured two difficult years marked by inconsistent ball-striking and a loss of confidence. Struggling with direction in her game, she worked tirelessly to rebuild both her technique and mindset.

A winter training program in the United States became a turning point, allowing her to improve her physical condition and refine her shot-making skills.

“I always tried to practice a little harder when others were resting,” JEONG said. “This year became a turning point because I learned how to overcome my fears and trust myself again.”

One of the most important moments of the final round came on the 15th hole, where she calmly converted a crucial four-meter par putt. The save helped her maintain momentum and avoid losing control during a key stretch of the tournament.

Remaining composed until the final putt, JEONG completed her breakthrough victory and lifted her first Dream Tour trophy.

The win also moved her up the season-long money list. With total earnings of KRW 14.217 million, JEONG climbed to sixth place in the Dream Tour money rankings.