GRANITEVILLE (S.C.) — It’s possible to accomplish a lot in one year.
Ask Anna Davis, 17, for an example.
The 2022 Augusta National Women’s Amateur champion quickly became a household name in this sport, and competed against some large fish last year.
“I think in many different ways. She said that she has had the opportunity to play in new tournaments. It’s been great to have new experiences and make new connections off the course. It has been a great experience to meet new people, and it has all changed my life for the better.
Davis started seven LPGA Tour starts last season, beginning with the Palos Verdes Championship in April. Two weeks later, her best finish was at the Cognizant Foundations Cup (T-50), in Clifton. She was able to make the cut five times and missed only the U.S Women’s Open, AIG Women’s Open.
Last week, the 2024 Auburn commit spent time at Sage Valley’s Junior Invitational. This tournament was where she placed third in her debut year. According to Davis who won 2023 in an impressive manner , there were significant parallels between Augusta National and Sage Valley that contributed to her success in 2022.
She said that Sage Valley’s vibe is very similar to Augusta. “This tournament is two week before Augusta, and I believe that it helped last year, for certain, being in the exact same environment.”
Anna Davis, United States, plays her third shot on the 2nd hole during the final round at Augusta National Women’s Amateur. It took place in Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia on April 2, 2022. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images).
One thing that stands out among ANWA competitors, is the fact that Augusta can’t be viewed on TV. You have to see the distance, elevation changes, and speed greens firsthand. It’s an unexpected realization for many after just one practice round.
“I was honest and didn’t really know much about it. She said that she hadn’t really seen the course on TV or any other media until she played the practice round. “That was where I got most of my knowledge about the course. I didn’t know anything about the event before it happened.
Davis is not the same 16-year-old rival we saw last year. Davis has won at Augusta and played on tour. She also played well in amateur ranks when she joined the ANWA. In January, she won the Jr. Orange Bowl International Golf Championship and was fifth in the Dustin Johnson World Junior.
She says that the biggest difference is in the mental aspect of things.
“The mental side of the game is often overlooked. She said that staying mentally strong in times of stress or misfortune is key to success. It’s not a difficult course to play, but it is simpler than most people believe. It was a great round and everything went perfectly. That will be a plus, as I know I can play well out on the course.
Fans want to know if the bucket hat will be making an appearance again. Davis left that question open.
She smiled and said “We’ll be seeing,” “I believe so, but I’m not sure. I keep one in my bag just in case I need it.”
