England’s Charley Hull says her game is “going in the right direction” after finishing tied for third at the Saudi Ladies International in Riyadh.
Hull made five birdies in her final round of two-under-par 70 to finish at nine under alongside Japan’s Katsu Minami.
“The top three is pretty good, I’m happy with it,” she said.
Thailand’s Patty Tavatanakit carded a seven-under 65 to complete a dominant wire-to-wire victory thanks to seven shots from Germany’s Esther Henseleit.
Hull hasn’t won a tournament since 2022, but has finished in the top 10 in her last three appearances, including her first event of the 2024 season at the LPGA Tournament of Champions in Florida last month.
“My first LPGA event a few weeks ago was a top 10 and then another top 10 here, so my game is definitely going in the right direction,” the 27-year-old said.
“I left so many putts hanging. I felt like I didn’t putt too badly, but there were just a few little misreads and I’m happy with my performance. I did so well. It was tricky.”
Tavatanakit started the day with a three-shot lead and quickly extended that advantage with a birdie at the first and a 12-foot putt for an eagle at the fifth.
Five more birdies followed to stay well clear of the chasing pack, his only missed shot coming at the 17th.
This is Tavatanakit’s first victory on the Ladies European Tour and fifth overall, although her first since winning her solitary major to date at the 2021 Ana Inspiration.
“It’s been a long time since I played this well,” said the 24-year-old, who won $750,000 of the $5 million (£4 million) fund.
“It’s very emotional, I’m very emotional right now about how I overcame this and looking back it was just one day at a time, keep working hard.
“I’m so grateful for the people around me and for my life. Without them, I wouldn’t be here today. I’m just taking it all in right now. It’s amazing. Just To be here in Saudi Arabia and I was able to do this. It’s unreal.
Henseleit says she is targeting a place on the European Solheim Cup team in September after the German capped off a strong week with a 69 in the final round to finish second by two shots.
“The Solheim Cup is definitely on my list this year. It would be an honor to play for Europe,” said the 25-year-old. “It’s always been my dream since I was little. I’m trying my best to be there, so we’ll see.”