Lottie Woad, an under-19 star from England, displayed her flair and fearlessness all weekend— especially on Friday. It was her professional debut at a tournament co-sanctioned by the LPGA and Ladies European Tour. The FSU collegian of yore put on a show. Su hit the round of the day, posting a bogey-free 7-under 65 that moves her to 12-under 132 through 36 holes. Woad’s record-breaking accomplishment has given her a two-shot advantage. She is currently ranked higher than top-ranked golfer Nelly Korda and fellow competitor Nanna Koerstz Madsen.
Woad’s impressive performance is a continuation of her recent success. Most recently, she claimed victory at the Women’s Irish Open just a few weeks ago! She turned some heads during the Evian Championship in France, tying for third. This remarkable feat earned her a place on the LPGA tour. Turning pro immediately after that race, Woad’s goal this week has been to do something special in her pro debut.
With fellow Americans Korda and Charley Hull of England as her playing partners most rounds, Woad’s steady, all-around game has stood out. She’s missed just two greens in regulation over the last two rounds, showing ice in her veins and all the gaudy precision that made her a sensei at @uwgolf. Her tenacity, drive, and unwavering focus and quality has certainly not gone unrecognized by her competition.
American golfer Nelly Korda is now only two strokes off the pace set by Australia’s Woad. She mused on the atmospheric conditions in Scotland, which she said had been surprisingly mild for standard Scottish fare.
“Apparently this is not really Scottish weather. It’s pretty soft, so I’ve been hearing this is not the typical weather and course they usually play out here.” – Nelly Korda
Woad spoke confidently based on not only her experience but what she’s been seeing in other successful tournaments. She has competed in seven majors over her career. She feels that this journey has prepared her to face the unique trials that come with competing on a professional level, and she’s ready.
“I played in seven majors now, so I’ve had all that experience, and obviously the LET events, too. So wasn’t really new things I guess. Kind of knew how to deal with it.” – Lottie Woad
And, as Woad races into her first weekend of competition, all eyes will be focused on her performance from every fan and competitor’s perspective. She’s begun the tournament with a blistering pace and jumped ahead of many of the sport’s biggest stars. Her strong showing certainly makes her a formidable player.
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