New Zealand teenager Lydia Ko won the USD$1 million bonus from the “Race to CME Globe” then added USD$500,000 when she defeated Carlota Ciganda of Spain on the fourth extra hole to win the CME Group Tour Championship.

By forcing a playoff at 10-under, Ko guaranteed herself the $1 million and inaugural Race to the CME Globe but went back to the 18th to claim her third Tour win of the year by outlasting Ciganda and Julieta Granada.

“This has been a big year,” The 17-year-old World No.3 said.  “A rollercoaster ride.  I’ve learned so much this year. 

“These kind of playoffs, it’s my first time as a professional.  I’ve been learning a lot.  I think next year is going to be another fun year.”
When I saw that $1 million in the box, I was like, Wow, I wonder who the winner of that will be?" Ko took the Race to the CME Globe by 1,850 points over Stacy Lewis, while Michelle Wie finished third.

“When I saw that $1 million in the box, I was like, Wow, I wonder who the winner of that will be?  It’s amazing.  

“I’ve never seen that much cash in one place before.  This year has been awesome.  Three wins, Rookie of the Year, it’s a huge honor for me to be here in this position. I’m looking forward to what’s coming up next year.”

Stacy Lewis picked up a sweep of her own after Sunay’s final round of the CME Group Tour Championship as she wrapped up an impressive 2014 season in style sweeping the LPGA’s three most prestigious honours.

The World No.2 picked up Rolex Player of the Year, Vare Trophy and LPGA Official Money List title. 

Lewis becomes the first American to take home all three awards since Betsy King in 1993 and the first player since Yani Tseng in 2011.

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James Savage

Former equipment editor of NCG. Inconsistent ball-striker and tea-maker.

Handicap: 17

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