WALSH MAKES STATEMENT WITH THIRD PLACE ON LPGA IN NEW JERSEY
Lauren Walsh finished third in the ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern on the LPGA Tour in New Jersey (Photo: Tristan Jones)
Ireland’s Lauren Walsh delivered the best finish of her LPGA career when she tied for third at the ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern in New Jersey where she closed with a final round 67 for a seven-under total.
That left Walsh just two behind winner Celine Boutier of France with Thailand’s Arpichaya Yubol in second on eight under.
Walsh, who is the Touring Professional for The Island GC in Dublin, is in her rookie season on the LPGA Tour. She remained composed on the final day in a round that contained five birdies and just the one dropped shot at the seventh.
“I stayed really patient out there and gave myself plenty of chances,” said Walsh, who picked up $133,344. “To finish in the top three on the LPGA is a big boost and something I can take a lot of confidence from.
It was an important week for the former Wake Forest golfer, who has been building steadily in her first season at this level. A finish like this will do no harm to her confidence. “There are a lot of positives to take from this week,” added Walsh. “I felt comfortable with my game, and hopefully this is another step forward.”
Compatriot Leona Maguire also enjoyed a good week to finish tied 9th on four under after a closing 68. Northern Ireland’s Stephanie Meadow was tied 21st on two-under after her closing 68.
Boutier claimed the title after starting the final round four off the lead. The Frenchwoman shot a five-under 66 to win on nine-under, one clear of Yubol, for her first LPGA title in three years.
“To have a chance to win today is definitely something very special,” Boutier said. “I think it’s a great tournament, very special for me, so really excited to be able to have another win here.” For Walsh, though, it was still a significant step forward and another sign she can compete at this level.