EVIAN-LES-BAINS — Rising English amateur Lottie Woad arrives at this week’s Evian Championship brimming with confidence after a dominant victory at the Irish Open, cementing her status as one of the most exciting emerging talents in women’s golf.
The 19-year-old, who plays out of Farnham Golf Club in Surrey, delivered a masterclass at Dromoland Castle, finishing at 14-under-par to claim a five-shot victory. Her performance has sent shockwaves through the amateur ranks and positioned her as a player to watch at the year’s fourth major. "I’m just trying to enjoy every moment," Woad said after her win. "This is a dream come true."
A Star in the Making
Woad’s rapid ascent has been nothing short of remarkable. Just two years ago, she was competing in junior events, but her precision ball-striking and unflappable demeanor have quickly set her apart. Her Irish Open triumph was her third significant amateur win in the past 12 months, following victories at the English Women’s Open Amateur and the European Ladies’ Amateur Championship.
Her coach, James Erskine, attributes her success to a relentless work ethic and an ability to perform under pressure. "Lottie has that rare combination of talent and mental toughness," he said. "She doesn’t get rattled, and when she’s in contention, she finds another gear."
Breaking Down Woad’s Game
Woad’s strengths are evident across the board, but a few key aspects of her game stand out:
- Driving Accuracy: She hits nearly 80% of fairways, giving her a crucial advantage on tight major layouts.
- Short Game Wizardry: Her touch around the greens has drawn comparisons to LPGA star Lydia Ko.
- Clutch Putting: She ranks among the best in amateur golf in putts per round under pressure.
The Evian Challenge
The Evian Championship, held at the picturesque Evian Resort Golf Club in France, presents a new test for Woad. The course’s undulating greens and strategic water hazards demand precision, but her recent form suggests she’s more than ready.
Former Solheim Cup captain Catriona Matthew has taken notice. "Lottie’s game is built for majors," she told BBC Sport. "She doesn’t overpower courses, but she doesn’t make mistakes either. That’s how you contend in these events."
What’s Next for Woad?
While Woad remains committed to her amateur status for now, speculation about her turning professional is mounting. A strong showing at Evian could accelerate those plans, with several LPGA and LET sponsors reportedly keeping close tabs on her progress.
For now, though, she’s focused on the task at hand. "I’m just taking it one tournament at a time," Woad said. "Evian is a huge opportunity, and I want to make the most of it."
Conclusion
Lottie Woad’s rise has been meteoric, and her performance at the Irish Open proved she belongs among the game’s elite. As she tees it up at Evian, all eyes will be on the young Englishwoman to see if she can continue her fairy-tale run.
Whether she contends or not, one thing is certain: Woad is a name we’ll be hearing for years to come. "She’s the real deal," Erskine said. "And she’s only getting started."
