Maria Jose Marin: A Triumph at the NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship

By: Josh Berhow
Published on: May 20, 2025

Introduction

In an exhilarating finish at the NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship, Arkansas sophomore Maria Jose Marin demonstrated unparalleled skill and poise to clinch her first individual title. With a remarkable final round score of three-under par 69 at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa’s North Course, Marin became the third Razorback to achieve this accolade, following in the footsteps of Maria Fassi (2019) and Stacy Lewis (2007). Let’s delve deeper into Marin’s outstanding performance and what this victory signifies for her budding golf career.

The Championship Rounds

Maria Jose Marin’s championship journey began with solid rounds of 70 and 72 in the opening days of the tournament. However, her performance on the third day—featuring a bogey-free, seven-under par 65—propelled her into the lead heading into the final round. Displaying breathtaking skill, Marin turned the pressure into an opportunity, demonstrating why she is considered one of the top talents in collegiate golf.

Final Round Highlights

As the final round commenced, Marin faced stiff competition from USC’s Catherine Park and Florida State’s Mirabel Ting, both of whom were three strokes behind her. Showing her competitive spirit, Marin quickly set the tone by sinking a birdie on the opening hole. She maintained her poise throughout the day, turning in a strong three-under par on the front nine. Despite posting a lone bogey on the challenging par-4 13th hole, she rebounded beautifully with a birdie on the par-5 closing hole, showcasing her clutch play under pressure.

Rivals Closing in

As the round progressed, Marin was aware that Ting, the second-ranked amateur golfer globally, was closing the gap with a strong back nine score of 31. This performance brought her within two strokes of the lead, increasing the tension on the course. Simultaneously, Stanford’s Kelly Xu, who was trailing by just one at 10 under through 11 holes, appeared to pose a potential threat. However, mishaps on the 12th and 16th holes stymied Xu’s efforts, causing her to finish third with a score of 71.

A Historic Win

Holding the clubhouse lead at 12 under, Marin had a suspenseful wait to see if any of her competitors could surpass her score. In the end, none could contend with her steady performance. This victory not only marked her as a formidable force within collegiate golf but also served to elevate her ranking, as she is now positioned 10th nationally.

The Joy of Victory

After her hard-fought victory, Marin expressed a myriad of emotions, stating, "I have mixed emotions, and the strongest is I’m super happy right now." Her confidence in her game was evident all week, especially during the final round. Marin’s triumph at the NCAA Championship underscores her resilience and determination.

Achievements Beyond the Championship

This latest win is not just another trophy for Marin; it symbolizes a significant step in her career. Having already captured three titles in the year leading up to the championship, her victory at the NCAA provides her with an invitation to compete in the upcoming U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills in Wisconsin. This opportunity allows her to showcase her talent on an even grander scale, amplifying her profile within women’s golf.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, Maria Jose Marin’s trajectory appears bright as she prepares for additional challenges and competitions. As a young athlete with a rapidly growing resume, expectations surrounding her performance will undoubtedly elevate. This victory not only adds to her accolades but also builds the narrative of her commitment to excellence in the sport.

Community and Inspiration

Marin’s success serves as an inspiration to young golfers across the nation. Her journey signifies the importance of perseverance, hard work, and belief in one’s abilities. As she continues to navigate her collegiate career, aspiring athletes will undoubtedly keep a close eye on her progress, drawing motivation from her accomplishments.

Conclusion

Maria Jose Marin’s historic win at the NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship is a testament to her talent, tenacity, and passion for the game of golf. As she prepares for future tournaments, including the U.S. Women’s Open, fans and fellow golfers alike are eager to witness her rise in the sport. With a remarkable season already under her belt, including her victory at the U.S. Women’s Amateur stroke-play portion, the question looms large: what does the future hold for this dynamic young golfer? One thing is clear—Maria Jose Marin is a name that will continue to shine brightly in the world of women’s golf.