Ingrid Lindblad Claims First LPGA Victory at JM Eagle LA Championship

LOS ANGELES — Ingrid Lindblad secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the JM Eagle LA Championship on Sunday, finishing with a 4-under 68 to avoid a playoff.

The 25-year-old former LSU star from Sweden ended the tournament at 21-under 277, helped by six birdies during her round at El Caballero Country Club.

“It feels amazing to win so early in my career,” Lindblad said. “I played well today and kept my focus until the end.”

Her closest competitor, Akie Iwai, fell just short with a 69 after carding a third-round 64 to tie for the lead. Iwai’s final hole bogey cost her a chance at a playoff.

Iwai managed to pull even with Lindblad at 21 under after a remarkable eagle at the par-5 16th but stumbled on the 18th. It was a tension-filled finish as Iwai’s recovery from the rough led to a missed putt.

“It was a tough ending for me,” Iwai said. “But I’m proud of how I played throughout the tournament.”

In addition to Lindblad and Iwai, Lauren Coughlin, Esther Henseleit, and Miyu Yamashita tied for third place at 19 under. Top-ranked Nelly Korda, in her final event before defending her title at the Chevron Championship, finished with a tie for 16th at 14 under.

The tournament, which was relocated to El Caballero due to renovations at Wilshire Country Club, marked the end of the LPGA’s West Coast swing. It will return to Wilshire next season.

Lindblad’s victory is seen as a significant moment for the LPGA, as the tour embraces a new generation of talented players. With the Chevron Championship starting this Thursday, attention will shift to Korda’s title defense and the rising stars of women’s golf, including Lindblad.