Lottie Woad Turns Pro: Rising Star Claims LPGA Membership!

Royal Porthcawl, Wales, United Kingdom - Exciting changes are on the horizon for the world of women’s golf, with Lottie Woad leading the charge. This top-ranked amateur from England has made headlines by turning professional just days after a stunning performance at the Evian Championship, where she finished tied for third, just one stroke off the lead. The announcement of her professional career was made via social media on July 16, 2025, immediately following her impressive showing at the tournament and after her noteworthy victory at the Women’s Irish Open earlier this month, where she clinched the title by six shots.

What’s particularly notable is that Woad’s rise is part of a larger development in women’s golf, specifically with the introduction of the LPGA Elite Amateur Pathway (LEAP). According to Golf Matters, this program is set to launch in 2025, designed to provide avenues for top female amateurs to earn LPGA Tour membership. Woad’s performance at the Evian Championship not only showcased her prowess as an amateur but also provided her enough points to secure her LPGA Tour membership through the LEAP initiative.

Turning Professional

Woad has opted to forgo her remaining year at Florida State University to dedicate herself fully to her new status as a professional golfer. Her decision marks a significant step in her career, one that many believe is filled with potential. On social media, Woad expressed excitement about her new journey, highlighting her acceptance of membership in both the LPGA and the Ladies European Tour for 2026. As she embarks on this thrilling endeavor, the Women’s Scottish Open next week will serve as her first professional tournament.

Additionally, Woad’s prior accolades as an amateur cannot go unmentioned. She not only won the 2024 Augusta National Women’s Amateur but also topped the amateur rankings globally during that summer. Her tenacity brought her recognition at events like the AIG Women’s Open and the Curtis Cup, where she played a stellar role in clinching victories for Great Britain and Ireland.

A Bright Future Ahead

The path paved for amateur players like Woad showcases the evolving landscape of women’s golf. The LEAP program will let promising golfers accumulate points for LPGA membership based on their achievements—everything from world rankings to performance in various championships. It’s a thoughtful move aimed at nurturing the amateur talent pool. As stated by Sky Sports, Woad became the first amateur winner on the Ladies European Tour since 2022 with her victory at the KPMG Women’s Irish Open, a true testament to her skills and hard work.

With the British Women’s Open set to commence at Royal Porthcawl from July 30, anticipation is palpable. This is a pivotal moment not only for Woad but for the future of female golf in general, heralding a new era where amateur golfers can transition seamlessly into professional ranks. Woad’s journey—just beginning—will undoubtedly inspire aspiring golfers everywhere. Who knows what heights she will reach next?