In an electrifying finale that will be etched in golf history, Lottie Woad, the 20-year-old sensation from Farnham, clinched the Augusta National Women’s Amateur title on Saturday, becoming the first European to secure this prestigious victory.
Her journey to the title was nothing short of a fairytale, encapsulated by a nerve-wracking birdie putt on the 18th green, sealing her win by a slender one-shot margin over the talented American, Bailey Shoemaker.
Woad's remarkable resilience and skill were on full display as she picked up shots in three of her closing four holes, showcasing a champions' resolve.
Her final round 69 at the iconic Georgia venue set the stage for a Masters week that will be remembered for years to come. As she said herself: "To be in the mix on the back nine at Augusta is something that everyone dreams about,” a dream that she lived, embraced, and conquered.
The Farnham Golf Club member’s performance was a crescendo of strategic play and determination, especially notable given the high-pressure environment of Augusta National, home of the US Masters.
Falling behind after Shoemaker set a challenging clubhouse target with a bogey-free 66, Woad was undeterred. She fought back with unparalleled grit, drawing level on the 17th and securing victory with a memorable putt on the 18th, finishing eight-under-par across three rounds.
This victory not only places Woad in the annals of golfing history but also earns her a coveted spot in both the Women’s Open and the US Women’s Open, marking her as a formidable contender on the global stage.
Her achievement is a testament to her talent, dedication, and the bright future ahead of her in professional golf.