Linn Grant Dominates The Annika for Second LPGA Title

Linn Grant of Sweden secured her second LPGA title with a commanding performance at The Annika tournament in Belleair, Florida, on October 22, 2023. She showcased remarkable consistency, playing 52 consecutive holes without a bogey. Grant concluded the event with a 5-under 65, finishing three strokes ahead of Jennifer Kupcho, who also posted a final round of 65.

This victory marks a significant milestone for Grant, as it is her second LPGA title and the second time she has received a trophy from Swedish golf legend and tournament host, Annika Sorenstam. Grant previously triumphed at the Scandinavian Mixed, a tournament co-hosted by Sorenstam and fellow Swedish player Henrik Stenson. Sorenstam praised Grant’s performance, stating, “You made this course look easy. It’s not easy,” as she celebrated with her on the 18th green.

Grant finished the tournament at an impressive 19-under 261, just shy of the tournament record. Her streak of 52 bogey-free holes ended on the final hole, but it was a minor blemish given her commanding lead throughout the event. Reflecting on her achievement, Grant shared her joy: “It’s just really nice to like see it go all the way and to really walk off 18 and be able to pat yourself on the shoulder and feel like I actually did it this week.”

The significance of this win is heightened as Grant becomes the first Swedish winner of The Annika, a tournament that began in 2020. She recalled attending clinics hosted by Sorenstam during her childhood, further highlighting the personal connection to her victory. “I started doing that with my dad, so thanks for that,” Grant remarked, acknowledging the influence Sorenstam had on her early development in the sport.

Initially, Jennifer Kupcho tied for the lead with a birdie on the first hole but quickly fell behind as Grant regained the advantage. After making a crucial 15-foot birdie putt to maintain her lead through five holes, Grant extended her advantage on the par-3 ninth, where Kupcho made her second bogey. From there, Grant maintained her command, and no competitor drew closer.

Gaby Lopez of Mexico finished strong with four birdies in her last six holes for a score of 65, securing third place in the tournament. Meanwhile, Canadian golfer Brooke Henderson ended in a three-way tie for 26th at 7-under, trailing by 12 strokes.

Another highlight of the tournament was Brooke Matthews, who made a hole-in-one with a 9-iron from 140 yards on the 12th hole, winning a two-year lease on a Lamborghini Huracán. Just two holes later, Matthews chipped in for an eagle, finishing with a score of 65. This strong performance allowed her to qualify for the upcoming CME Group Tour Championship, where the winner will receive $4 million.

Nataliya Guseva had her own standout moment, making a birdie with a gap wedge from 109 yards on the final hole, which also helped her qualify for the CME Group Tour Championship. Similarly, Lucy Li advanced to the championship with a birdie on the final hole, moving up 13 spots in the rankings.

Grant’s victory continues her streak of winning at least once each year since 2020, a testament to her consistent performance across various tours, including the Ladies European Tour and the European Tour. She emphasized the importance of maintaining this winning streak, echoing her father’s belief that having a win every year is a mark of a successful career.

Defending champion Nelly Korda faced challenges during the tournament, starting six shots behind and ultimately finishing tied for 15th with a score of 69. Despite her struggles, Korda remains a prominent figure in women’s golf, adding excitement to the competitive landscape.

Overall, Grant’s remarkable performance at The Annika exemplifies her skill and determination, solidifying her status as a rising star in the world of golf.