The Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA) has rapidly established itself as one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the world of amateur golf. Conceived by Augusta National Golf Club, the home of the Masters Tournament, the ANWA was created to inspire greater interest and participation in the women’s game, providing an unparalleled platform for the sport’s brightest young talents. Played the week before the Masters, the tournament culminates with the final round contested on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National, an experience that is truly unique in amateur golf.
A Vision Realized: The Genesis of the ANWA
The announcement of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur in April 2018 by Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley was met with widespread acclaim. It marked a significant step forward in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of female amateur golfers. The vision behind the ANWA was not just to host another golf tournament, but to create a landmark event that would elevate the profile of women’s amateur golf and provide a pathway for these players to achieve their dreams.
Tournament Format and Schedule: A Test of Skill and Endurance
The Augusta National Women’s Amateur is a 54-hole stroke play tournament featuring an elite international field of 72 of the world’s best women amateur golfers. The tournament unfolds over three days, with the first two rounds played at the Champions Retreat Golf Club in Evans, Georgia, a venue renowned for its challenging layout and pristine conditions. These initial rounds test the players’ skill and mental fortitude, setting the stage for the final round.
Following the first 36 holes, a cut is made, and the leading 30 players and ties advance to the final round. This is where the magic truly happens, as these accomplished amateurs get the opportunity to compete on the iconic Augusta National Golf Club. The experience of playing on the same fairways and greens that have witnessed some of golf’s greatest moments is an unparalleled honor and a crucial step in their development. Prior to the final round, all participants, even those who did not make the cut, are invited to Augusta National for an official practice round, further enriching their experience.
Schedule Breakdown for the 2025 Tournament:
Wednesday, April 2: First round at Champions Retreat Golf Club.
Thursday, April 3: Second round at Champions Retreat Golf Club (cut to top 30 players and ties).
Friday, April 4: Official practice round for all participants at Augusta National Golf Club.
Saturday, April 5: Final round at Augusta National Golf Club.
The Field: A Gathering of the World’s Best Amateurs
The field for the Augusta National Women’s Amateur is meticulously compiled, ensuring that only the most accomplished and promising amateur players receive an invitation. The selection process takes into account various criteria, including:
Winners of recognized amateur championships.
High rankings in the Women’s World Amateur Golf Ranking (WWAGR).
The top-ranked players from the United States based on the previous year’s final WWAGR.
Past champions of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur within the last five years (provided they remain amateurs).
Reigning champions of significant junior and collegiate events.
Special invitations extended by the Augusta National Women’s Amateur Committee.
This rigorous selection process guarantees a highly competitive and diverse international field, showcasing the depth of talent in women’s amateur golf. The tournament provides a platform for these future stars to compete against the best, gain invaluable experience, and make a name for themselves on a global stage.
The Champions: Making History on Hallowed Ground
Since its inception in 2019, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur has witnessed the emergence of exceptional talent and thrilling finishes. The list of champions is a testament to the high level of competition and the significance of this event:
2019: Jennifer Kupcho (USA) – Kupcho’s dominant performance, including a remarkable back nine at Augusta National, set a high standard for future champions.
2021: Tsubasa Kajitani (Japan) – Kajitani became the first international winner of the ANWA, triumphing in a playoff and marking a significant milestone for global women’s amateur golf. (The 2020 tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic).
2022: Anna Davis (USA) – At just 16 years old, Davis became the youngest champion in the event’s history, showcasing the incredible potential of junior golf.
2023: Rose Zhang (USA) – After holding the number one spot in the World Amateur Golf Ranking for an extended period, Zhang secured a dramatic playoff victory, adding another layer of prestige to her amateur career.
2024: Lottie Woad (England) – Woad’s impressive comeback in the final round, with birdies on three of her last four holes, made her the first Englishwoman to win the ANWA, highlighting the growing strength of international players.
2025: Carla Bernat Escuder (Spain) – Bernat Escuder delivered a consistent and stellar performance, carding three consecutive rounds of 68 to secure a one-stroke victory, demonstrating exceptional composure under pressure.
These champions have not only etched their names in the history of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur but have also gone on to achieve further success in their golfing careers, inspiring countless young girls around the world.
Media Coverage: Bringing the ANWA to the World
The Augusta National Women’s Amateur has garnered significant media attention since its inception, recognizing its importance in the landscape of golf. The tournament enjoys extensive coverage, allowing fans worldwide to follow the journey of these talented amateurs.
Television Broadcast: The first and second rounds from Champions Retreat are broadcast live on Golf Channel, providing viewers with comprehensive coverage of the initial stages of the tournament. The final round at Augusta National receives primetime coverage on NBC, a testament to the event’s prestige and the growing interest in women’s golf.
Live Streaming: All competitive rounds are also simulcasted on the official ANWAgolf.com website, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.
Digital Platforms: The ANWA maintains a strong presence on social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok (@ANWAgolf), offering real-time updates, highlights, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes content. YouTube, in particular, features full round replays, highlight packages, and special features, catering to a wide range of viewers.
The extensive media coverage not only provides valuable exposure for the players but also helps to grow the fanbase for women’s golf, inspiring a new generation to take up the sport.
FAQs
What is the Augusta National Women’s Amateur?
The Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA) is a premier international amateur golf tournament for women, established in 2019 by Augusta National Golf Club. It aims to inspire greater interest and participation in women’s golf by providing a platform for the world’s top amateur female golfers to compete at the highest level.
When and where is the 2025 ANWA held?
The 2025 ANWA took place from April 2 to April 5. The first two rounds were played at Champions Retreat Golf Club in Evans, Georgia, and the final round was held at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia.
What is the tournament format?
The ANWA is a 54-hole stroke play event. The first 36 holes are contested over two days at Champions Retreat Golf Club. After these rounds, the field is cut to the top 30 players, who then play a practice round at Augusta National on Friday, followed by the final round on Saturday at Augusta National Golf Club.
Who won the 2025 Augusta National Women’s Amateur?
Carla Bernat Escuder of Spain won the 2025 ANWA, making history as the first Spanish woman to claim the title. She finished with a score of 204 (-12), recording three consecutive rounds of 68. Bernat edged out 16-year-old American Asterisk Talley by one stroke.
What does the winner receive?
While the ANWA does not offer prize money, the champion earns several prestigious exemptions, including:
Exemptions into major championships such as the U.S. Women’s Open, Women’s British Open, Chevron Championship, and Evian Championship.
Entry into any USGA, R&A, and PGA of America amateur championships for which she is eligible
The ANWA trophy, designed by Tiffany & Co.
Valuable World Amateur Golf Ranking points and LPGA LEAP points
These benefits are contingent upon the winner maintaining her amateur status.
Is there any prize money awarded?
No, the ANWA does not award prize money. As an amateur event, participants compete for prestige, exemptions, and ranking points rather than financial compensation.
How can fans watch the ANWA?
The ANWA is broadcast live, with the first two rounds aired on Golf Channel and the final round on NBC. Additionally, live streaming is available through the ANWA’s official website and various international broadcasters, depending on the viewer’s location.
Who are some notable past champions?
Notable ANWA champions include:
2019: Jennifer Kupcho (USA)
2021: Tsubasa Kajitani (Japan)
2022: Anna Davis (USA)
2023: Rose Zhang (USA)
2024: Lottie Woad (England)
These players have gone on to achieve significant success in both amateur and professional golf.
How does the ANWA impact women’s amateur golf?
The ANWA has significantly elevated the profile of women’s amateur golf by providing a high-visibility platform for top female amateurs to showcase their talents. It has inspired increased participation and interest in the women’s game globally.
To conclude
The Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA) stands as a beacon of progress and excellence in women’s amateur golf. Since its inception in 2019, the tournament has provided a prestigious platform for the world’s top female amateur golfers to compete at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club.
The 2025 edition of the ANWA was particularly historic, with Carla Bernat Escuder becoming the first Spanish woman to claim the title. Her victory not only highlights her personal achievement but also signifies the growing global reach and impact of the tournament.
Beyond the competition, the ANWA offers invaluable opportunities for its participants, including exemptions into major championships and the chance to play on one of golf’s most revered courses. While no prize money is awarded, the prestige and exposure gained are unparalleled in the amateur golf world.
The tournament’s commitment to showcasing and supporting women’s amateur golf has inspired countless young athletes and has played a pivotal role in promoting gender equality in the sport. As the ANWA continues to grow in stature, it promises to remain a cornerstone event that celebrates talent, determination, and the enduring spirit of the game.
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