Twenty-year-old Lottie Woad etched her name in history at the revered venue of the Masters on Saturday, becoming the first European female to win Augusta National Amateur.
Entering the final stretch in the fifth edition of the prestigious tournament, Woad trailed Bailey Shoemaker by one stroke after the American posted a course-record 66. In a dramatic finale, Wood managed to craft a birdie-birdie finish.
Reflecting on her triumph, Woad told The Telegraph: “To do this at Augusta is something that everyone dreams about. It’s just really cool to be standing in the same place as the Masters champions have stood and to be following in their footsteps.”
The path is bright and full of endless potential. #ANWAgolf pic.twitter.com/MVr26ztOk5
— Augusta National Women's Amateur (@anwagolf) April 7, 2024
While Woad’s moment may not resonate as loudly as the legendary heroics witnessed on Augusta’s 18th hole in years past, her victory was no less earned. Only Arnold Palmer in 1960 and Mark O’Meara in 1998 had previously birdied the final two holes at the National to win by one shot. The golfing community congratulated Woad, including English golf legends like Tony Jacklin, Luke Donald, and Justin Rose.
Rose told the Telegraph Sport: “What an incredible finish from Lottie – I was gripped, on the edge of my seat,” Rose told Telegraph Sport. “I’m so happy for her and will definitely take inspiration from that late charge for The Masters. She has shown all our juniors what is possible.”
Congratulations, champion.#ANWAgolf pic.twitter.com/9d5ybwT7cN
— Augusta National Women's Amateur (@anwagolf) April 6, 2024
Recognized as one of Britain’s most promising prospects, Woad’s ascent to victory comes as no surprise, given her standing as the world’s fourth-highest-ranked amateur and her accolades, including All-American honours in her freshman year at Florida State University.
Looking ahead, Woad’s triumph has earned her coveted spots in prestigious tournaments, including the Women’s Open at St Andrews and the US Women’s Open.
