Golf: LPGA Tour Championship winner Lydia Ko shifts focus away from course with wedding on horizon

How would an extra NZ$3.25 million look in your bank account? 

That's the reality for Lydia Ko, who pockets the largest-ever winner's prize in women's golf history, after the LPGA's Tour Championship this morning.

Ko in action.
Ko in action. Photo credit: Getty Images

While a win like that would be life-changing for any golfer, it's a life-changing moment off the course Ko now has her attention on.

After eight long years in the waiting, it was a win that had her fighting back the tears after winning her first tour championship since 2014.

"You know, to be able to do it in front of my family and my team, it's a very special one," Ko said.

Ko started the day 15-under, tied with Ireland's Leona Maguire and struggled in today's high winds.

But holding a slim one shot on the home stretch, Ko stamped her authority on the par-three 16th.

A birdie moved Ko two shots clear - a lead she would hold onto to claim the richest-ever prize in women's golf.

Today's celebrations had a new look though. 

For the first time, Ko was seen embracing fiance Chung Jun and the pair are rumoured to be tying the knot in South Korea next month. 

"It was just before my win in Hawaii and then actually a few of the girls said 'hey, he's your lucky charm' and I think Megan also said that too," she said. "And I was like 'yeah, I gotta keep him around.'"

Whatever it is, it's working - today's win moves Ko to 25 qualifying points for the LPGA Hall of Fame - two points shy of the required 27.

At just 25 years old, it's astonishing to think she could be eligible by next year.

One major milestone still remains this year though.

"I'm also excited for some time off, and get ready to become a bride soon," Ko said.

With today's record-breaking winner's cheque, it should be a wedding with no expense spared.