Finnish professional golfer Kiira Riihijarvi has been steadily building her career on the LPGA Tour since joining.
Born in France but raised in Finland, this 28-year-old athlete has overcome the challenges of practicing golf in a cold climate to compete at the highest level of women’s professional golf.
Her journey from the frozen fairways of Oulu to the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club represents determination and talent that has caught the attention of golf fans worldwide.
Kiira Riihijarvi’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kiira Riihijärvi |
| Date of Birth | April 29, 1997 |
| Age | 28 years old |
| Education | University of Tampa (Bachelor’s in Marketing, Master’s in Entrepreneurship) |
| Nationality | Finnish |
| Height | 5’11” (180 cm) |
| Weight | N/A |
| Turned Professional | 2021 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $150,000-$250,000 |
| Career Earnings | $60,200 |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Kiira Riihijarvi’s golf story began at age nine when she participated in a beginner’s course at Virpiniemi Golf Club in her hometown of Oulu, Finland. Growing up in a region where temperatures average 36.9 degrees and snow covers the ground for about 145 days annually, practicing golf presented unique challenges.
The harsh Finnish winters forced her to train in indoor facilities for much of the year, but her passion for the game never wavered.
Her athletic genes came from both parents – her father Heikki was a professional hockey player in Finland and France, while her mother Johanna competed in equestrian events.
This sporting background instilled in her the discipline and competitive spirit that would serve her well in golf. She has two siblings, Roosa and Paavo, who supported her golf ambitions from the beginning.
The transition from Finland to the United States marked a pivotal moment in her development. She attended Darlington School in Rome, Georgia, graduating in 2016. This boarding school experience was challenging initially, as she struggled with the restrictions and cultural differences.
However, it provided her with the opportunity to play year-round golf and compete against top junior players from around the world.
Professional Career
After completing her college career at the University of Tampa, Riihijarvi turned professional in 2021, making her debut at the Gant Ladies Open in her home country of Finland.
This emotional homecoming resulted in an impressive eighth-place finish, signaling her readiness for professional competition. The performance gave her confidence and validated her decision to pursue professional golf.
Her breakthrough year came in 2022 on the Epson Tour, where she captured her first professional victory at Ann Arbor’s Road to the LPGA in June. This win was particularly meaningful as it came during a season where she consistently performed at a high level, recording six top-10 finishes throughout the year.
Her consistent play resulted in finishing fourth on the Epson Tour money list, earning her graduation to the LPGA Tour for the 2023 season.
The step up to the LPGA Tour proved challenging, as Riihijarvi has acknowledged in interviews. Playing alongside major champions and established stars required mental adjustments and increased preparation.
Her 2023 rookie season was a learning experience, and she had to go through Q-Series in December 2023 to maintain her tour status. She successfully earned her card for 2024, demonstrating her resilience and determination to compete at the highest level.
Kiira Riihijarvi’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Kiira Riihijarvi’s estimated net worth ranges between $150,000-$250,000.
Career Earnings
| Year | Tour | Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | LET/Various | Minimal earnings |
| 2022 | Epson Tour | $80,208 |
| 2023 | LPGA Tour | Limited earnings |
| 2024 | LPGA Tour | $60,200+ |
| 2025 | LPGA Tour | Ongoing season |
Endorsements
Information about specific endorsement deals is limited in available sources. Riihijarvi serves as a player-ambassador for Mission Resort + Club in Central Florida, which provides some financial support and playing privileges.
As a relatively new professional with Finnish heritage, she may have opportunities for equipment deals or partnerships with Finnish companies.
However, major endorsement contracts typically come after establishing consistent performance and higher visibility on tour. Her management company, Sigmoid Sports, likely works to develop commercial opportunities as her career progresses.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Professional Wins | 1 (Epson Tour) |
| LPGA Tour Starts | 20+ |
| Best LPGA Finish | T19 (2024 Dana Open) |
| Career Top 10s | 0 (LPGA Tour) |
| Current World Ranking | 633rd |
| Scoring Average | 73.0+ |
| Driving Distance | N/A |
| Greens in Regulation | N/A |
| Putting Average | N/A |
| Amateur Wins | 12 college tournaments |
| All-American Honors | 4 times |
FAQs
1. How did Kiira Riihijarvi start playing golf in Finland’s cold climate?
Riihijarvi began playing golf at age nine through a beginner’s course at Virpiniemi Golf Club in Oulu, Finland. Despite harsh winters with 145 days of snow annually, she practiced in indoor facilities during cold months and developed her skills during brief summer seasons.
2. What was Riihijarvi’s biggest amateur achievement before turning professional?
Her most significant amateur achievement was becoming the first Finnish female golfer to compete in the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, where she finished 28th overall. She also won the NCAA Division II Player of the Year award twice.
3. How successful has Riihijarvi been on the LPGA Tour since joining?
Riihijarvi has faced challenges establishing herself on the LPGA Tour, with her best finish being T19 at the 2024 Dana Open. She has earned approximately $60,200 in LPGA Tour prize money.
4. What college did Riihijarvi attend and what were her academic achievements?
She attended the University of Tampa from 2016-2021, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship. She was a four-time All-American and won 12 college tournaments during her collegiate career.
5. Does Riihijarvi have any endorsement deals or sponsorships?
She serves as a player-ambassador for Mission Resort + Club in Central Florida and is managed by Dublin-based Sigmoid Sports. Specific details about other endorsement deals are not publicly available, which is typical for emerging professional golfers.
