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England’s Jodi Ewart Shadoff clinched her first LPGA Tour title as she held on to claim a one-shot victory at the Mediheal Championship in California.
The 34-year-old, who began the final day with a four-shot lead, recorded a one-under 71 to finish on 15 under as she edged out Japan’s Yuka Saso.
Ewart Shadoff’s compatriot Georgia Hall finished tied third on 13 under.
“It’s a little bit surreal,” said Ewart Shadoff, after earning her maiden triumph at the 246th attempt.
She added: “I didn’t know if this moment would ever come.
“I’m just really grateful for everybody who’s on my team. Last year was really hard – I’m standing here because of them. I’m just really grateful.”
Ewart Shadoff, who struggled with injury last year, briefly lost the lead after a front nine featuring two bogeys and a birdie.
However the Yorkshire-born world number 93, who had recorded 27 top-10 finishes in her bid for a first success, steadied herself by picking up shots on the 12th and 14th. Victory was closed out with four successive pars.
“I’ve been through a lot in the past couple of years, injuries, and last year was really tough. I found it a pretty significant mental challenge to get through that,” she said.
“There were times during last year I didn’t think I would be playing this year so to be stood here today is really awesome.
“I didn’t give up on myself. I have a lot to be grateful for.”
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