EVIAN-LES-BAINS, France — Lottie Woad came agonizingly close to making history at the Evian Championship, narrowly missing out on becoming the first amateur to win a major championship in 58 years. Instead, it was South Korea’s Grace Kim who held her nerve to claim her first major title in a dramatic final round at Evian Resort Golf Club.
Woad’s Historic Charge Falls Just Short
The 19-year-old English amateur, who earned her spot through a qualifying tournament, stunned the golfing world with a fearless performance. Woad entered the final round just two shots off the lead and briefly held a share of the lead on the back nine before a late bogey on the 17th dashed her hopes. "I gave it everything," Woad said afterward. "To come this close is bittersweet, but I’ll take so much from this week."
Woad’s performance evoked memories of Catherine Lacoste, the last amateur to win a major at the 1967 U.S. Women’s Open. Had she triumphed, Woad would have joined an exclusive club of just seven amateurs to ever win a women’s major. Her final-round 70 left her at 12-under, one stroke behind Kim and tied for second with Japan’s Ayaka Furue.
Grace Kim Seizes Her Moment
While Woad’s story captivated fans, it was Grace Kim who delivered under pressure. The 23-year-old Australian-born South Korean, who turned professional in 2022, birdied three of her last five holes to secure victory. "I’ve dreamed of this since I was a little girl," Kim said, fighting back tears. "To do it here, at a major, is unbelievable."
Kim’s win was built on consistency—she never shot worse than 69 all week—and clutch putting. Her 15-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole sealed the deal, leaving Woad and Furue needing eagles to force a playoff. "I knew I had to stay aggressive," Kim said. "This course rewards bold play."
Key Moments from the Final Round
The drama unfolded over a thrilling back nine:
- 13th Hole: Woad drained a 25-foot birdie to tie Kim for the lead.
- 15th Hole: Kim answered with a birdie to regain sole possession of first.
- 17th Hole: Woad’s bogey after a wayward tee shot proved decisive.
What This Means for Woad’s Future
Despite the near-miss, Woad’s performance has major implications. The Florida State University standout is now expected to receive sponsor exemptions into future LPGA events. "She’s got the game to compete at the highest level," said Solheim Cup captain Suzann Pettersen. "This won’t be the last we hear of her."
Woad, who plans to return to college golf this fall, remained philosophical: "This week showed me I belong. Whether I turn pro soon or wait, I know I can win out here." Her finish also earned her low amateur honors, continuing a breakout year that included a win at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.
The Bigger Picture for Women’s Golf
Kim’s victory underscores the LPGA’s growing depth—she’s the fifth first-time major winner in the last two years. Meanwhile, Woad’s near-miss highlights the increasing competitiveness of amateur golf. "The gap between amateurs and pros is shrinking," noted Golf Channel analyst Karen Stupples.
The Evian Championship, often criticized for its tricky greens and unpredictable weather, delivered another memorable chapter. With Kim joining the major winners’ circle and Woad announcing herself as a future star, the tournament reinforced its reputation as a stage for dramatic breakthroughs.
As for Woad, her performance ensures she won’t fly under the radar much longer. "I’ll be back," she vowed. "Next time, I’ll finish the job." For now, though, the spotlight belongs to Grace Kim, whose steady hand earned her a place in golf history.
