In a dramatic turn of events at the AIG Women’s Open, Thailand’s rising golf star Jeeno Thitikul has officially dethroned American favorite Nelly Korda to claim the coveted World No. 1 spot — and she didn’t hold back when addressing the media after her electrifying victory.

Thitikul, just 22, delivered a statement brimming with pride and confidence that has since gone viral across social media platforms.

“This isn’t just a win for me — it’s a statement. I’ve worked too hard, sacrificed too much, and waited long enough. I didn’t come here to follow — I came to lead,” Thitikul declared in front of a packed press room, her voice steady and unwavering.

Her win at the historic St Andrews course, where she edged out Korda by two strokes in a nail-biting final round, marks a significant milestone in her already impressive career. The Thai sensation played with composure and grit, sinking a 30-foot birdie putt on the 17th that proved decisive.

But the moment quickly became even more electric when Korda, long considered the face of women’s golf, issued a pointed response just hours later.

“Let her enjoy the spotlight. Let’s see if she can handle the pressure that comes with it,” Korda said sharply when asked about Thitikul’s statement. “Being number one isn’t about one weekend. It’s about consistency. We’ll see.”

The back-and-forth between the two elite athletes has ignited intense debate among fans and analysts, many of whom are now eagerly anticipating their next showdown.

Social media erupted with reactions ranging from admiration to criticism, with #JeenoThitikul and #Korda trending worldwide. Analysts have already dubbed this rivalry one of the most compelling storylines in women’s golf in recent memory.

With the Solheim Cup and several major tournaments still ahead this season, the fire between Thitikul and Korda is only just beginning to burn.

One thing is certain: the world of women’s golf just got a lot more exciting.