Aine Donegan from Lahinch has burst onto the professional golf scene with an impressive performance at the Ford Women's NSW Open in Australia. The 23-year-old, who earned her tour card at the Qualifying School in Morocco, showcased her talent with a bogey-free 68 followed by a stunning eight-under 63, securing the clubhouse lead in the weather-delayed tournament.
Donegan's journey to this point has been marked by dedication and inspiration, notably from her friend Sam Murphy, who also made a winning debut on the Alps Tour. Donegan credits her coach, Gary Madden, for her solid play, emphasizing her strong short game that kept her out of trouble.
Despite a weather delay at Wollongong Golf Club that halted play on Thursday, Donegan remained unfazed. She started her campaign with a bogey-free round, placing her tied for fifth, just three strokes behind local favorites Kelsey Bennett and Hannah Reeves.
Her second round began with an eagle on her opening hole, setting the tone for an incredible run. Donegan made seven birdies in an 11-hole stretch, propelling her to 12-under. Although a late bogey dropped her to 11-under, her 63 was enough to claim a two-stroke lead over Australia's Sarah Kemp.
Donegan's rapid rise isn't surprising to those who followed her amateur career. She gained attention in 2023 by qualifying for the US Women’s Open at Pebble Beach and briefly leading the field. Her success continued as she played a pivotal role in Great Britain and Ireland’s victories in the 2024 Curtis Cup and the Vagliano Trophy.
Sharing her coach with Alps Tour standout Murphy, Donegan is in good company. Murphy, who caddied for her at Qualifying School, recently won the Ein Bay Open in Egypt. As the second round progresses, Donegan's position remains strong, showcasing her potential in the professional ranks.
Meanwhile, Elm Park’s Anna Foster also made a solid start, carding rounds of 72 and 67 to sit in 11th place at three-under.
In other golf news, Leona Maguire had a strong showing at the LPGA’s HSBC Women's World Championship in Singapore. The Co Cavan star shot a four-under 68, moving up to joint 19th. She trails American Auston Kim, who leads the tournament at nine-under after a 69.
Donegan's debut signals a promising future, and her performance in Australia is just the beginning of what could be an exciting professional career.