Furue of Japan Secures First Major Victory at Evian Championship, Narrowly Defeating Australian Kyriacou by One Shot

Ayaka Furue of Japan secured her first major title by winning the Evian Championship with a late surge on Sunday at Evian-les-Bains, France. Furue, 24, sealed her victory with an eagle on the final hole, finishing 19 under overall. She made three birdies in the last four holes, edging out Australian Stephanie Kyriacou by one stroke, who led overnight, and Thailand’s Patty Tavatanakit by two strokes. Tavatanakit shot an impressive 8-under 63 in the final round, positioning herself for her second major.
In a thrilling finish, as they approached the 18th hole, Furue and Kyriacou were tied at 17 under, with Tavatanakit already in the clubhouse. Furue demonstrated composure by hitting the fairway while Kyriacou’s shot veered into the rough. Furue’s accurate second shot landed on the green, setting her up for a championship-winning putt, which was followed by a celebratory Champagne shower. Furue’s previous best major performance was fourth place at Evian in 2021.
Kyriacou, 23, who birdied the final hole, also achieved her best result. Previously, she had a tie for seventh at the Women’s British Open two years ago. Tavatanakit, a major winner at the ANA Inspiration in 2021, was unable to catch up with Furue and Kyriacou in the final round.