Lexi Thompson made history at the Navistar LPGA Classic, becoming the youngest winner in LPGA Tour history at 16 years, seven months, and eight days old.
Thompson closed with a 2-under par 70 on Sunday to finish at 17-under 271, defeating Tiffany Joh by five strokes and earning $195,000 for her first LPGA Tour victory.
"This has been my dream like my whole life. It's the best feeling ever."
Thompson, who turned 16 in February, led by five strokes entering the final round and built that advantage to seven shots through 10 holes at the Robert Trent Jones Trail's Capitol Hill complex. However, she faced pressure after consecutive bogeys on holes 11 and 12, which allowed Joh to close within three strokes.
The young Floridian recovered with clutch birdies on holes 16 and 17 to secure the victory and the record books.
Thompson shattered the age record for winning a multiple-round LPGA tournament, previously held by Paula Creamer, who won in 2005 at 18 years old.
Her father Scott, who served as her caddie, reflected on the moment:
"It's just awesome watching your kid do something like this, but it is very nerve-racking."
Thompson turned professional in June 2010 at the age of 15. Following this victory, she petitioned the LPGA for membership based on her win, which was approved on September 30, 2011.