Last summer, Woad showcased remarkable golfing maturity at the renowned Old Course, skillfully navigating the coastal winds that challenged players on this iconic links course. Her ability to thrive under pressure caught the attention of her coach, Edwards, who remarked, “She loves the competition… and she enjoys the performance element.”
Woad’s impressive stance in the sport culminated in her victory at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur last year, a feat that solidified her reputation as a standout talent in women’s golf. Edwards noted, “Augusta probably showed it more than most with those three birdies in the last few holes to win,” highlighting her ability to deliver in critical moments.
In her current NCAA season, competing for Florida State, Woad has consistently finished among the top contenders, achieving two wins alongside ten top-three finishes out of eleven tournaments. This stellar performance has elevated her to the top of the women’s amateur world rankings.
Despite her success, Woad is not yet ready to transition to a professional career. She expressed, “I’m still trying to get my final two points for the LPGA,” and is focused on competing in upcoming events like the Evian Championship and the Women’s Open. While she contemplates delaying her professional debut to complete her studies, she remains a strong contender for LPGA eligibility.
Edwards believes that Woad’s mindset is crucial to her success, stating, “I really do believe the sky’s the limit.” He emphasized her confidence as she competes against established players without intimidation, highlighting her high performance standards.
As Woad prepares to compete at Evian alongside prominent golfers such as world number one Nelly Korda and Olympic champion Lydia Ko, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes. The future looks bright for this exceptional young talent, with the potential to make a significant impact in the world of golf.