Who is Lottie Woad? All About Rising Star in Women’s Golf

Lottie Woad is the betting favorite to win the AIG Women’s British Open, and this is only her second week as a touring professional. While her success may seem sudden, it’s been a steady 15-month journey to the top.

At just 21, the English golfer has already joined elite company, becoming only the third player in LPGA history to win her first event as a member—alongside legends Jin Young Ko and Beverly Hanson.

Augusta National Breakthrough

Lottie Woad’s name first gained attention when she won the 2024 Augusta National Women’s Amateur. After trailing behind USC’s Bailey Shoemaker, Woad birdied three of the last four holes to win. “The quietly confident Woad embraced it all.”

College Dominance at Florida State

Back in 2020, Woad reached out to Florida State when she was ranked 1,151st in the world. By 2024, she became World No. 1 in the Amateur rankings, set a school scoring record, and secured 27 top-10 finishes. Known for her unmatched work ethic, teammate Charlotte Heath said, “You think you work hard, and she works 10 times harder.”

First Professional Win as an Amateur

Before going pro, Woad won the Women’s Irish Open on the Ladies European Tour, finishing at 21 under par. Two-time LPGA winner Madelene Sagstrom said, “It was Lottie’s week; it was wonderful to watch her play.”

LPGA Card & Almost a Major

Through the LPGA Elite Amateur Pathway (LEAP), Woad earned her LPGA card with a third-place finish at the Amundi Evian Championship, just one stroke away from a playoff. “It seems effortless to her,” said Karen Stupples.

Winning Her Pro Debut

Woad then made her professional debut at the ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open, winning by two shots while playing alongside Nelly Korda and Charley Hull. She now ranks No. 24 in the Rolex Rankings, thanks to a stunning average of 67.3 over her last 12 rounds.

“She’s not out there for the glitz and the glam,” said Catriona Matthew. “She just wants to be as good a golfer as she can be and go out and beat everyone.”

Success at the Majors

Her first seven LPGA events were all major championships. At the 2024 British Open, Woad won low amateur honors (T-10 finish) and wowed fans with a hole-out eagle on the 18th. “All the players out there can hit the shots,” Matthew added. “But what makes her special is that she can do it when she has to.”

Respected by the Best

Nelly Korda called Woad “absolutely amazing” after playing with her, impressed by her calm and consistency. Lydia Ko, who plays alongside Woad in Wales, said:
“Just because you’re a higher-ranked player doesn’t mean that there’s something that I can’t learn from somebody else. She’s obviously playing great golf… my coach has sent me a video of her swing.”

Lottie Woad has made her mark not just with results, but with humility, grit, and fearless play. Now, the world is watching as she eyes her first major title.