The Lacoste Ladies Open de France ended in an exciting play-off victory for Chiara Tamburlini, who secured her second Ladies European Tour win by beating Kirsten Rudgeley. The Swiss rookie emerged victorious after both players finished at seven-under-par and had to go back to the 18th hole for a sudden death play-off. Tamburlini made a crucial birdie while Rudgeley fell short, sealing the win for Tamburlini in a dramatic fashion.
Tamburlini’s victory at the 2024 Lacoste Ladies Open de France marked her second win of the season, with her first coming at the Joburg Ladies Open in South Africa. Reflecting on her win, Tamburlini expressed how stressful the final day was, especially with Rudgeley playing exceptionally well. Tamburlini highlighted the importance of her birdie on the 17th hole during regular play and the incredible birdie she made in the play-off, emphasizing how fast-paced and intense the entire experience was for her.
Starting the day with a one-shot lead over Annabel Dimmock and with Rudgeley trailing by four shots, Tamburlini faced a nervy start, dropping three shots on the front nine. However, she managed to regain control with three consecutive birdies from the 8th hole, moving two shots clear of the competition. Rudgeley staged a comeback on the back nine with a series of birdies to take the lead before Tamburlini’s clutch approach shot on the par-3 17th tied the score and ultimately led to the play-off.
In the play-off, Tamburlini showcased her skills by almost holing her approach shot, setting up a birdie putt that secured her victory. Despite admitting to not having her best game throughout the day, Tamburlini maintained focus and determination, eventually coming out on top. Manon de Roey finished in third place, just one shot behind the leaders, while Dimmock ended up tied for fourth with Noora Komulainen and Virginia Elena Carta.
The Lacoste Ladies Open de France provided an exciting and competitive showcase of talent among female golfers on the Ladies European Tour. The tournament was a test of skill, resilience, and mental fortitude, with Tamburlini emerging as the deserving champion after a thrilling play-off victory. The competition highlighted the depth of talent on the tour, with players like Rudgeley, De Roey, Dimmock, Komulainen, and Elena Carta putting on impressive performances throughout the event.
Tamburlini’s win at the Lacoste Ladies Open de France adds to her growing reputation as a rising star in women’s golf, solidifying her position among the elite players on the Ladies European Tour. The Swiss rookie’s ability to handle pressure situations and deliver clutch shots when it mattered most showcased her composure and skill under testing circumstances. With two wins in the same season, Tamburlini’s future in professional golf looks promising, and she is poised to achieve even greater success on the tour.
The final day of the tournament was a rollercoaster ride of emotions for both players and fans alike, with the outcome hanging in the balance until the very end. The competitive spirit displayed by Tamburlini, Rudgeley, and the rest of the field exemplified the passion and dedication that drive these athletes to excel on the golf course. The Lacoste Ladies Open de France served as a platform for female golfers to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level, entertaining spectators and inspiring the next generation of players to pursue their dreams in the sport.
