2023 AIG Women’s Open at a Glance
The 2023 AIG Women’s Open was held from August 10 to 13 at Walton Heath Golf Club in Surrey, England. It was the fifth and final major championship of the 2023 LPGA season, and the first time Walton Heath had hosted the event.
Founded in 1976, the AIG Women’s Open reached its 47th edition in 2023. It has been recognized as an LPGA major since 2001 and has established itself as one of women’s golf’s premier events, bringing the world’s best players together on traditional British courses.
According to The R&A, the 2023 purse rose 23% from the previous year to $9 million. The winner’s share was set at $1.35 million.
Lilia Vu Wins by Six Strokes at 14 Under
American Lilia Vu won with a four-round total of 14-under-par 274. Starting the final round tied for the lead, Vu carded a 5-under 67 to beat England’s Charley Hull by six strokes.
According to the LPGA’s official final-round results, Vu won two majors in the 2023 season, adding the AIG Women’s Open to the Chevron Championship. She also became the first American since Juli Inkster in 1999 to win two women’s major championships in a single season.
Three Korean Players Finish in the Top Five
Although no Korean player lifted the trophy, the group delivered a strong showing near the top of the leaderboard. Jiyai Shin finished third outright, while Hyo Joo Kim and Hee Young Yang tied for fourth, putting three Korean players in the top five.
- Jiyai Shin: 7-under 281, third place
- Hyo Joo Kim: 6-under 282, tied fourth
- Hee Young Yang: 6-under 282, tied fourth
Shin, a two-time champion of the event in 2008 and 2012, was particularly impressive. She shot a 2-under 70 in the final round to finish third outright behind Hull.
Korean Winners in AIG Women’s Open History
According to the official AIG Women’s Open record book, Korean players had won the event six times before the 2023 tournament. Se Ri Pak became the first Korean winner in 2001, followed by Jeong Jang, Jiyai Shin, Inbee Park and In-Kyung Kim.
- 2001: Se Ri Pak
- 2005: Jeong Jang
- 2008: Jiyai Shin
- 2012: Jiyai Shin
- 2015: Inbee Park
- 2017: In-Kyung Kim
Shin is the only Korean player to win the AIG Women’s Open twice. In 2012, she won by nine strokes, the largest margin of victory in the event since it became an LPGA major in 2001.
Korea’s most recent victory came through Kim in 2017. The 2023 tournament therefore offered Korean players a chance to return to the winner’s circle after a six-year wait, but Vu’s victory extended that drought.
The Legacy of the 2023 AIG Women’s Open
While no Korean player won the title, Shin, Kim and Yang finishing together inside the top five once again highlighted the depth of Korean women’s golf on the major-championship stage. Shin’s challenge for the title against the world’s leading players was especially notable given her status as a former champion.
Vu completed her second major victory of the season with a dominant final round. With the purse increased to $9 million, the 2023 AIG Women’s Open showcased both the event’s continued growth and the enduring competitiveness of Korean women’s golf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When was the 2023 AIG Women’s Open held?
It was held over four days, from August 10 to 13, 2023.
Where was the 2023 AIG Women’s Open played?
The tournament was held at Walton Heath Golf Club in Surrey, England. It was the first time the course had hosted the AIG Women’s Open.
What was the purse for the 2023 AIG Women’s Open?
The total purse was $9 million, with the winner receiving $1.35 million.
Who won the 2023 AIG Women’s Open?
American Lilia Vu won with a four-round total of 14-under-par 274.
Which Korean player had the best result in 2023?
Jiyai Shin recorded the best result, finishing third outright at 7-under 281. Hyo Joo Kim and Hee Young Yang tied for fourth.
How many times have Korean players won the AIG Women’s Open?
Through the 2023 tournament, Korean players had recorded six victories: Se Ri Pak, Jeong Jang, Jiyai Shin, Inbee Park and In-Kyung Kim. Shin won twice, in 2008 and 2012.
