(CNN)It was a long week and an even longer year, but Ko Jin-young is a champion once again.
Almost a year to the day since her record-shattering victory at the HSBC Women's World Championship, the South Korean returned to Singapore to defend her crown and seal her 14th LPGA Tour victory.
After a week delayed at various points by heavy rain, Ko carded 17-under to finish two shots ahead of American Nelly Korda and become the first player in the tournament's 15-year history to secure back-to-back wins.
It marked a cathartic return to the winner's circle for Ko, who has struggled with a persistent wrist injury since the second half of 2022. Tears flowed almost as soon as she tapped home her closing putt for par, as the 27-year-old shared an emotional hug with caddie David Brooker.
"It's a great honor to defend this title again. This week was too long for me but too great, so I'm so happy," Ko told reporters.