The two-time All-American at Arizona State becomes the latest product of Sun Devil Women’s Golf to win at the sport’s highest level. Strom put together one of the most decorated careers in the history of the program and her success has continued as a professional.
“I am thrilled to see Linnea break through in such a big way,” Sun Devil Women’s Golf Head Coach Missy Farr-Kaye exclaimed. “She has had her ups and downs professionally after an amazing collegiate career. I can’t wait to see what is ahead for Linnea. Our Sun Devil Family is so excited for her.”
To win the ShopRite LPGA Classic, Strom put together a vintage performance recognizable to many Sun Devil fans. Strom won the 2016 Pac-12 Individual Championship while in Tempe and ended her illustrious career with 20 career Top-10 finishes. She earned her first victory on the LPGA Tour by shooting a tournament-record 11-under 60 on Sunday to overcome a seven-stroke deficit on the final day.
After making the cut right on the number Saturday, Strom was one of the first tee-times on Sunday. Her round started three hours and 40 minutes before the final group on the Bay Course at Seaview Resort, presenting her with a long wait after entering the clubhouse with the lead.
A key moment in the comeback was an eagle on the par-five ninth hole, as she chipped-in from 15-feet out to make up ground. She added an incredible nine birdies to get to 14-under 199. The 27-year-old birdied the last three holes and four of the last five, coming through in the clutch moments.
“Honestly, I really did not expect this waking up today,” Strom told LPGA.com after the win. “This is proof that you should never give up. Just go out there and give it your all.”
She had the lowest final-round score (60) by a winner in LPGA Tour history and matched the second-lowest score overall. Annika Sorenstam set the record with a 59 in the second round of the 2001 Standard Register PING. The previous best final round for a winner was a 61 by Inbee Park in the 2014 Manulife Financial LPGA Classic.
Strom started the day tied for 52nd which gives her by far the biggest comeback based on position on the LPGA Tour since 1984. The previous largest comeback by position since 1984 was Ayako Okamoto, who entered the final day tied for 23rd before winning the 1987 Lady…
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