Lottie Woad made history on Sunday by winning the Women's Scottish Open in her professional debut, cementing her status as one of golf's brightest new stars. The 21-year-old Englishwoman, who was the world's top amateur just two weeks ago, showcased her composure and skill on a challenging day at Dundonald Links in Irvine, Scotland.

A Flawless Performance

Woad's final round of 4-under 68 secured her a three-shot victory over Hyo Joo Kim, who had mounted a strong challenge early in the round. Woad remained unflappable, even when Kim briefly shared the lead after birdies on the 11th and 12th holes. Woad responded with birdies on the 13th and 14th, regaining control and finishing with a three-quarter wedge shot over a winding burn to secure her victory.

A Rising Star

Woad's win marks her as the second player in three years to win an LPGA Tour event in her professional debut, following Rose Zhang in 2023. Her performance at the Scottish Open adds to her growing list of achievements, including her recent victory at the Women's Irish Open and a strong showing at the Evian Championship, where she narrowly missed a playoff.

Momentum for the AIG Women's Open

With her victory, Woad has positioned herself as a serious contender for the upcoming AIG Women's Open at Royal Porthcawl in Wales. Her consistent play and ability to handle pressure have made her one of the most exciting players to watch in women's golf.

A Year of Firsts

Woad's decision to turn pro after earning enough points for an LPGA card has already paid off. Her win at the Scottish Open, co-sanctioned by the Ladies European Tour (LET), is a testament to her talent and determination. As she heads to Wales, Woad is focused on maintaining her momentum and making an impact in the final major of the year.

The Broader LPGA Landscape

Woad's victory is part of a remarkable season for the LPGA Tour, which has seen 19 different winners in 19 tournaments—a record in the tour's 75-year history. This streak highlights the depth of talent in women's golf and sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the season.

Woad's Reflections

Reflecting on her win, Woad said, 'I think it's quite hard to do that, but very special to win in my first event. Everyone was chasing me today, and I managed to maintain the lead and played really nicely down the stretch.' Her calm demeanor and ability to perform under pressure have drawn comparisons to some of the game's greats.

What's Next?

As Woad prepares for the AIG Women's Open, the golf world will be watching closely to see if she can continue her remarkable run. Her journey from amateur sensation to professional champion is just beginning, and the future looks incredibly bright for this young star.