In a remarkable turn of events at the Women’s Irish Open, 21-year-old English amateur Lottie Woad stunned the professional golf world by capturing the title, capping off what has already been a breakthrough season for the young talent.
Woad, who hails from Farnham, Surrey, and plays college golf at Florida State University, showcased nerves of steel and maturity beyond her years as she fended off a strong international field at Dromoland Castle in County Clare. Her composed final round, highlighted by a series of crucial up-and-down saves and a clutch birdie on the 18th, sealed her victory by a single shot over a field packed with experienced tour players.
While the LPGA and LET (Ladies European Tour) regulars were expected to dominate the leaderboard, Woad stayed calm under pressure, embracing the underdog tag with a fearless brand of golf. After holing her winning putt, the young amateur was greeted by raucous cheers from the Irish crowd, who had clearly taken a liking to the plucky Englishwoman throughout the week.
“It’s just unbelievable,” Woad said moments after her win, barely able to wipe the smile from her face. “I came here hoping to gain experience and learn from the pros, but to be holding the trophy is just something I never imagined. It’s really special.”
Her victory continues a strong tradition of rising amateurs making waves in professional tournaments. Similar to what fellow English golfer Georgia Hall did before turning pro, Woad’s triumph will undoubtedly open doors for her as she weighs up when — not if — to make the jump to the professional ranks.
A product of England Golf’s national squad and a regular at elite amateur events, Woad has long been tipped as one to watch. She recently impressed at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and has been building a solid reputation on the collegiate circuit in the United States. This latest victory adds another glittering milestone to her résumé — and does so in style.
While she will not collect the winner’s cheque due to her amateur status, the impact of this win on her career cannot be overstated. Sponsors, tournament invitations, and media attention are sure to follow. Many see this as a glimpse of what is to come in women’s golf: a new generation of fearless, highly skilled players ready to challenge the status quo.
For the Women’s Irish Open itself, Woad’s win is a reminder of the tournament’s role in giving emerging talent a stage. The event, revitalized in recent years after a long hiatus, has become a favorite stop for European golfers looking to test themselves on classic Irish layouts under the often unpredictable Irish skies.
Looking ahead, the young Englishwoman remains grounded. When asked about turning professional, she smiled, “Right now, I just want to get back to my team, keep working hard, and enjoy college golf. There’s no rush — I’m learning so much every time I tee it up.”
One thing is certain: Lottie Woad’s name will be one to remember. With her poise, talent, and the experience of beating the pros on their own turf, it feels like only a matter of time before she trades her amateur status for a full-time place on the world stage. The Women’s Irish Open may have just crowned its most compelling champion yet — and women’s golf has gained another rising star ready t
o take it by storm.
