The quest for a First-Ever Repeat winner

the Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA), now in its sixth year, is set to begin Wednesday, April 2nd, with a compelling narrative already unfolding: can anyone break the tournament’s unique streak? In its short but impactful history, the ANWA has never seen a repeat champion, nor has a single golfer claimed the title more than once. Adding another layer of intrigue, no two golfers from the same university have ever hoisted the trophy. Florida State University’s Lottie Woad, the defending champion, and her teammate Mirabel Ting are steadfast to rewrite history [1].

The tournament, a beacon for women’s golf, unfolds over three challenging rounds. The first two rounds, taking place on April 2nd and 3rd, are held at Champions Retreat. The final, highly anticipated championship round is scheduled for April 5th at the iconic Augusta national Golf Club [1]. The competition begins with 72 elite players, all vying for a coveted spot in the top 30. Those who make the cut will not only experience a practice round at Augusta National on April 4th but will also compete in the final round on what is arguably the world’s most famous golf course.

A Field of Unprecedented Strength

The 2025 ANWA boasts an exceptionally strong field. With 49 of the world’s top 50 amateur players competing, this year’s tournament is widely regarded as the most competitive in amateur golf history [3]. This level of competition underscores the growing importance and prestige of the ANWA in the landscape of women’s golf.

Lottie Woad, currently ranked no. 1 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), and Mirabel Ting, who secured a tie for eighth place in the previous year’s event, are at the forefront of this talented field. Both players are not only competing for the championship title but also for valuable exemptions into LPGA events and other high-profile amateur championships.

Woad’s historic Victory and Ting’s Rising Star

Last year, Lottie Woad etched her name in ANWA history with a remarkable one-stroke victory over Bailey Shoemaker. Her final score of 8-under par 208 was the third-lowest in the tournament’s history. Mirabel Ting also delivered a strong performance, finishing in the top eight with a score of 1-over par 217.

Woad,making her third appearance at the ANWA,reflected on her practice round at Champions retreat on Tuesday,stating,“I always love coming back here. It definitely feels a little bit different,but it’s all good things,and I’m really looking forward to it.” Her consistent performance has kept her at the top of the WAGR since July 24,2024,a remarkable 34 consecutive weeks.

Addressing the strength of the field, Woad added, “It’s a great field; this event always has one of the best fields that we play in. It’s great that we get to play against all of these people especially some people we don’t see in college — we get to test ourselves against them as well.”

Woad’s victory in 2024 was especially memorable due to her clutch performance, birdying three of the final holes.This feat placed her in an elite group of golfers, including legends like Arnold Palmer, Mark O’Meara, and Art Wall Jr., who have also birdied their final two holes at Augusta to win by a single stroke.

When asked about her most vivid memory from last year’s final round, Woad pinpointed a crucial moment: “The putt on 18 is the one I remember the most. That one I’ve watched the most. I think the feeling was relief after losing the lead and then getting it back. I was glad that it was over and I had managed to do it.”

A two-time First-Team all-American and the 2024 ACC Golfer of the Year, Woad continues to excel for the Seminoles. Her junior season has been marked by two individual championships, seven top-three finishes, and an notable 24-under-par scoring average.

Mirabel Ting enters the ANWA as the No. 1 ranked collegiate player and No.3 in the WAGR. She has consistently ranked among the world’s top five amateur players as November 20, 2024, a testament to her unwavering dedication and skill.

Despite her impressive ranking,Ting remains grounded,emphasizing her focus on continuous improvement rather than solely on achieving the highest ranking. “It means a lot,” Ting said regarding her No. 1 collegiate ranking. “But simultaneously occurring I’m not trying to put a lot of pressure on myself that I have to win every tournament just as I’m the No. 1 player.”

Approaching her second ANWA appearance, Ting exudes confidence. “I’m striking the ball well,” she noted after her practice round at Champion’s Retreat. “Everything has been working well from tee to green. I’m trying to enjoy every moment; not everyone gets to play Augusta National every year. I’m trying to have fun, and see were it takes me.”

Ting also highlighted the advantage of familiarity with the course: “Knowing the course helps. The greens are similar to last year but a little bit faster. Hopefully I will get the chance play Augusta National for the third time.”

Her recent victory at the Florida State Match Up, where she set a record score of 200 (16-under par), underscores her current form. This performance also propelled the No. 4 ranked Seminoles to a record fifth Match Up championship.

Coach Bond’s Perspective

Seminole head coach Amy Bond expressed her excitement for her players: “I’m really excited for lottie and Mirabel to have the prospect to play in the Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Based on their performances this year, I believe they both have a legitimate shot of contending to win the championship.”

Bond, who has closely observed Woad and Ting’s preparation, added, “Being the defending champion, Lottie has been looking forward to this week for a while. Her game is in a really great spot and I am excited to watch her play this week.” Woad’s tee time is scheduled for 9:44 AM on Wednesday, while Ting will tee off at 10:14 AM.

Regarding Ting’s prospects, Bond stated, “Mirabel has illustrated that she can compete against the best players in the world based on her eighth place finish the ANWA last year. Her play last year gave her the confidence and the experience she needs on this course to play really well.”

Concluding her remarks, Bond emphasized the significance of the event: “This is a great week for women’s amateur golf and I’m thrilled that we’ll have two Seminoles competing in such a prestigious event.”

The Broader Impact of the ANWA

The Augusta National Women’s Amateur plays a crucial role in promoting women’s golf, inspiring young girls to pursue the sport and providing a platform for amateur players to showcase their talent on a global stage [1]. The tournament’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence has made it a cornerstone of the amateur golf calendar.

The ANWA’s impact extends beyond the competition itself. The event generates significant media coverage, raising the profile of women’s golf and attracting new fans to the sport.this increased visibility helps to create more opportunities for female golfers at all levels, from junior programs to professional tours.

Furthermore, the ANWA serves as a valuable learning experience for the players involved. Competing against the best amateur golfers in the world, on one of the most challenging courses, prepares them for the rigors of professional golf and helps them develop the skills and mental fortitude needed to succeed at the highest level.

How to Watch

Golf enthusiasts can catch the final round of the 2025 Augusta National Women’s Amateur on Saturday, April 5th, from 12 PM to 3 PM ET on NBC and streaming on Fubo [2].Don’t miss the opportunity to witness history in the making as these talented athletes compete for the coveted ANWA title.