Marin and Oh share lead at 65 at Augusta National Women’s Amateur

Maria Jose Marin and Soomin Oh are tied for the lead after the opening round of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur at Champions Retreat in Evans, Georgia. Marin, a junior from Arkansas, finished with a 7-under 65 after birdying her final two holes. Oh, a 17-year-old from South Korea, also shot a 65 to share the lead.

Asterisk Talley, the 17-year-old Californian who was the runner-up in last year’s tournament, made a spectacular eagle from a greenside bunker on the 18th hole to shoot a 66. The ideal weather conditions led to low scores, with eight players shooting 67 or lower and 31 players finishing under par.

Marin, the 19-year-old Colombian who won the NCAA title last year, redeemed herself after failing to make the cut last year. She emphasized the importance of patience and staying grounded in her game. Oh, who was the runner-up in the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific earlier this year, played a bogey-free round and shared the lead with Marin.

Andrea Revuelta and Vanessa Borovilos joined Talley at 66, while Meja Örtengren and Amelie Zalsman were among the group at 67. Stanford University was well represented in the field, with five players competing, four of whom broke par. U.S. Women’s Amateur champion Megha Ganne struggled with two double bogeys and finished with a 77.

The tournament continues with the second round at Champions Retreat, with the top 30 players and ties advancing to the final round at Augusta National on Saturday. The Augusta National Women’s Amateur has quickly become one of the most prestigious events in women’s amateur golf, with players vying for the opportunity to compete at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club.

Talley, who reached the championship match of three USGA events in 2024, including the U.S. Women’s Amateur, showcased her skills with a bunker shot for eagle on the 18th hole. She finished one shot off the lead and secured her spot for Saturday’s round at Augusta National.

The competition is fierce, with talented young golfers from around the world showcasing their skills on the challenging course. The Augusta National Women’s Amateur continues to grow in stature and importance, providing a platform for the next generation of female golfers to shine on a global stage.