123rd Women’s Amateur Championship: A Showcase of Golfing Talent at Muirfield

The 123rd Women’s Amateur Championship at Muirfield sets new records with 276 entries, featuring standout performances from Lily Hurst, Farah O’Keefe, and other top golfers.

The 123rd Women’s Amateur Championship at Muirfield has kicked off with a bang, setting new records and showcasing the finest talent in women’s golf. With a record-breaking 276 entries, the event has attracted top golfers from around the world, all vying for one of the most coveted titles in the sport.

The championship, hosted by The R&A, is being held at Muirfield for the first time, following the historic staging of the AIG Women’s Open in 2026. The venue, known for its challenging course and rich history, has already witnessed remarkable performances, including three holes-in-one during the stroke-play qualifying rounds.

The Standout Performances

Lily Hurst a 23-year-old golfer from Huddersfield, secured the medal honours with an impressive six-under-par total. Her rounds of 70-66 were highlighted by 11 birdies, showcasing her exceptional skill and consistency. Hurst expressed her delight at performing on such a prestigious course, stating, “I’m really happy with that.

It’s amazing, especially on such a prestigious golf course at such a prestigious event.”

Another standout performer is Farah O’Keefe the world No. 3 from the United States. O’Keefe, who was the star of the Curtis Cup in Los Angeles, followed an opening 71 with a 66, featuring an eagle at the par-5 17th. She acknowledged the positive energy from the Curtis Cup, saying, “I think all of the energy and the good vibes from (the Curtis Cup) have kind of stuck around for this week.”

Notable Contenders

Joining Hurst and O’Keefe in the top ranks are Rianne Mikhaela Malixi of the Philippines and Meja Ortengren of Sweden, both of whom posted five-under aggregates. The defending champion, Paula Martin Sampedro from Spain, and Anna Davis the 2026 Augusta National Women’s Amateur winner, also progressed in the top ten.

Two Scottish golfers, Sheridan Clancy and Jen Saxton will be part of the knock-out stage, which starts on Wednesday. French player Louise Depadt also made her mark by acing the 7th hole in the second round, following in the footsteps of her compatriots Vairana Heck and Giselle Zhao who also recorded holes-in-one.

The Asia-Pacific Contingent

The championship features a strong Asia-Pacific contingent, led by former Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) champion Eila Galitsky and ex-US Women’s Amateur winner Rianne Malixi. Among the 19 players from the region, notable names include Jazy Roberts and Celine Chen from Australia, Butpapaporn Sukterm from Thailand, and Akane Motomura from Japan.

Galitsky and Malixi are part of a talented group that includes five of the top 10 in the women’s World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) and 11 from the top 20. The diverse field represents 33 countries, highlighting the global appeal of the championship.

Auburn Tigers in the Mix

Five Auburn golfers are also competing at Muirfield, including Charlotte CantonisBalma DávalosAnna DavisAnne Fernandez and Gia Raad. Davis, a rising senior, had an impressive run last year, finishing as a quarterfinalist. The winner of the championship will earn exemptions into major tournaments, including the AIG Women’s Open and the US Women’s Open.

The Women’s Amateur Championship is not just a test of skill but also a platform for emerging talent. The winner will secure invitations to prestigious events, including the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Standard Portland Classic on the LPGA Tour. The runner-up will gain a spot in Final Qualifying for the AIG Women’s Open.

The R&A will provide live stream coverage of the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final, ensuring that golf enthusiasts worldwide can witness the thrilling moments as they unfold.