The Augusta National Women`s Amateur is back for its sixth year, bringing together defending champions, seasoned participants, and rising stars to compete at a legendary golf venue.
Here are six notable players to keep an eye on as the tournament begins at Champions Retreat Golf Club on Wednesday and Thursday, culminating in the final round at Augusta National on Saturday.
Lottie Woad
Lottie Woad`s victory at last year`s ANWA was a dramatic one, sealed with birdies on three of her final four holes to edge out Bailey Shoemaker. This win propelled Woad to the top of the world amateur rankings in 2024. Since then, she has consistently performed well, achieving numerous top-5 and top-3 finishes.
Reflecting on her ANWA win, Woad mentioned it significantly boosted her confidence, reinforcing her ability to compete from behind. She aims to maintain focus and perform her best, with aspirations of joining the LPGA through the LEAP program, where another ANWA victory could bring her closer to earning an LPGA Tour card.
Despite the event`s history of no repeat winners, Woad`s consistent performance and experience make her a strong favorite to potentially break this trend.
Bailey Shoemaker
Bailey Shoemaker came very close to winning last year`s ANWA, with a remarkable final round that appeared to set up a playoff until Woad`s strong finish.
While Shoemaker`s ranking is currently 45th in the world amateur rankings and she is still seeking an event win, her coach Justin Silverstein at USC remains optimistic. He notes her excellent ball-striking and putting during practice, suggesting a breakthrough performance is imminent.
Jasmine Koo
Jasmine Koo, Shoemaker`s teammate at USC, is another player to watch. Currently ranked No. 1 in the AJGA rankings and No. 2 worldwide among amateurs, Koo has an impressive record since her fourth-place finish at last year`s ANWA. Her achievements include multiple wins and high finishes, along with making the cut at the LPGA Chevron Championship as an amateur.
Asterisk Talley
Asterisk Talley stood out at last year`s ANWA, finishing tied for eighth at just 15 years old. Since then, she has demonstrated star potential, winning the Annika Invitational and achieving high placements in other major amateur events. Ranked No. 14 in the world, Talley`s consistent top-10 finishes and her low amateur honors at the U.S. Women`s Open highlight her promising career at only 16.
Rianne Malixi
Rianne Malixi, from the Philippines, is notable for her victories at the U.S. Girls` Junior and U.S. Women`s Amateur last year – a rare double win. The Duke commit, ranked No. 4 globally, is aiming for a stronger performance at this year’s ANWA after missing the cut in her debut last year. Her recent top finishes indicate she is well-prepared for the tournament.
Mirabel Ting
Mirabel Ting has been exceptionally successful since the last ANWA, winning more events than any other player. As the world No. 3 amateur and top-ranked NCAA Division I player, Ting has secured six victories in the past year. Despite a lower finish at the NCAA championships, her recent wins suggest she is in excellent form as she approaches Augusta.
