Finding true friends when you’re not even looking for them? That’s a gift. And for Jeeno Thitikul, that gift came in the form of Lydia Ko—who she fondly calls her “older sister.” Their bond started blooming back in September at the Kroger Queen City Championship. Ko signed off with a stunning nine-under-par 63 at TPC River’s Bend to finish at 23-under-par 265. She left everyone, including Thitikul, in awe, clinching her third LPGA Tour title of the 2024 season and the 22nd of her already remarkable career.

Even though Thitikul had to settle for a second, she didn’t seem too disheartened. She was quite content having the opportunity to play alongside her inspiration. “I respect her like my older sister, as a legend and also as my role model. It was a really good experience watching her on the same tee box, on the same greens. Lydia’s putter was on fire. She makes it everywhere that she has a chance,” said Thitikul. Fast forward to now, and the tables have turned a bit as Thitikul has surpassed her older sister…

At just 21, Thitikul is carving her path—grabbing the LPGA Tour trophy at the CME Group Tour Championship and pocketing a jaw-dropping $4 million in the process (the largest first-place prize in women’s golf history). Ko was right there in the mix, finishing a solid third, but the $550k she earned pales in comparison—leaving a $3.45 million gap between her and her younger sister.

Ko entered as one of the favorites to win the title. She has already won the tournament two times. In 2023, she missed the chance to compete in the season-ending tournament as she finished outside of the top 60. Her glistering form this year was a sign that she would win the CME Group Tour Championship but Jeeno Thitikul had other plans. Thitikul’s success this year isn’t just about her game; it’s about the numbers.

According to Golf Digest’s list of the ’15 Highest-Paid Female Athletes for 2024,’ Thitikul’s total earnings this year come to $7.1 million. Add another $2 million from endorsements, and her bank account is smiling. Meanwhile, Ko, the World No. 3, has earned $3.2 million in winnings and $3.5 million from endorsements. It’s certainly not bad, but yes, there is an evident gap of $2.4 million, with Thitikul one-upping her. Notably, the Thai golfer also surpassed the season-earning record, set in 2007 by Lorena Ochoa with $4,364,994. 

Topping Thai and the Kiwi golfer is America’s own Nelly Korda. She earned $4.4 million on the course and a whopping $10 million in endorsements. One thing to note here is that Korda won more tournaments than Thitikul this season, and yet her official LPGA Tour earnings are less than hers.

Thitikul might have given a reality check to Ko, but the latter’s official career earnings stand at a whopping $20.1 million, while the former’s is at $9.8 million. So, when it comes to total career cash, Ko’s still the queen. But keep in mind that Ko joined the LPGA Tour in 2014, while Thitikul did so in 2022. 

Still, money aside, there’s one thing Thitikul can’t touch right now: her insane career resume. With 22 LPGA wins and a reputation that screams GOAT-level consistency, Ko’s legacy is rock solid. Thitikul’s climbing fast, no doubt—but Ko’s throne? That’s not going anywhere just yet.

How was Lydia Ko’s illustrious 2024?

If you are an avid Ko fan, you exactly know how great Ko’s year has been. Ko participated in 20 events this season. Out of 20 events, she made it to the weekend in 18, proving she’s still got that trademark consistency. The highlights? Oh, just casually snagged three LPGA titles, including her first major in eight years at the AIG Women’s Open. To top it all off, she did take home an Olympic gold in Paris. Not to mention, that Hall of Fame induction at 27—the youngest ever.

Sure, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. She started strong, winning the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, but spring and summer were rough patches. Missing two cuts and a few shaky finishes might’ve made some doubt, but Ko did what she does best—she bounced back. With her late-season wins at the AIG Women’s Open and Kroger Queen City Championship, she reminded everyone why she’s in a league of her own.

And of the course? Ko’s reflections on mental balance and personal growth stood out. She credits her husband and even her dog, Kai, for keeping her grounded. Add to that the Heather Farr Perseverance Award, honoring her resilience, and you’ve got a season that’s as inspiring as it is impressive.