WORLD number one Lydia Ko captured her 11th USLPGA Tour title Sunday as she cruised to a four-stroke victory at the Kia Classic tournament.

    The 18-year-old New Zealand teenager fired a five-under par 67 to finish at 19-under 269 and earn US$255,000 in first place prize money. She will remain number one for the 23rd straight week.

    The win puts Ko in the driver’s seat heading into next week’s ANA Inspiration, the first major championship of the season.

    “I’ve been playing consistently well, so I’m really happy about that. But who knows what’s going to happen tomorrow,” Ko said.

    Ko maintained the lead throughout the fourth round as she went into the final day holding a three-shot lead.

    (SD-Agencies)