Lydia Ko hasn't won an event since July 2016 but has 11 top 10 finishes in 2017. Photo / Brett Phibbs
Kiwi golfer Lydia Ko has described her 2017 season as an 'emotional roller coaster ride'.
The 20-year-old failed to add to her 14 career LPGA titles in 2017 having a down year for end high standards but still finished second in three events and had 11 top tens across the year.
She held the number one spot until midway through June before slipping down to world number nine at season's end.
The Olympic silver medallist last won on the LPGA Tour in July 2016.
She began the year with a new coach, new caddie and a change of clubs and Ko described the season in an Instagram post as an 'emotional roller coaster ride'.
"2017 has been a year that have taken me on an up and down emotional roller coaster ride... however when I reflect back on my year now, I think every moment has been an experience to grow from, and a learning curve for me both on and off the golf course,"
"Though some may class my season "disappointing", but I would say, that my '17 season was still full of positives.
"Can't say enough thank you's to god, my family, friends, sponsors and fans for being by my side each step of the way. Going to keep working hard to come back more positive, patient, strong and smiley!!! Thanks 2017, now, Hello 2018."
Ko is expected to return to the LPGA for the second event of the year, the Australian Open in Adelaide starting February 15.
She won the event in 2015.
All Whites' players now have four months at their various clubs to make their case.