France’s Celine Boutier wrote her name in the French golf history, securing a resounding victory in her home country at the prestigious Evian Championship. Dominating the field, Boutier’s six-stroke triumph not only marked her first major championship win but also solidified her standing as a force to be reckoned with on the LPGA tour.
Ranked 15th in the world, Boutier showcased her prowess, clinching the fourth LPGA major of the season and capturing her fourth win on the tour to date. With two wins and four top-10 finishes this season, the tenacious golfer’s dedication and hard work have paid off in remarkable fashion.
Reflecting on her phenomenal achievement, Boutier expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm, stating, “It honestly has been my biggest dream ever since I started watching golf. This tournament has always been very special to me, just even watching as a teenager. To be able to hold this trophy is pretty unbelievable.”
Boutier’s path to victory was marked by consistency and unwavering determination. Building upon her solid performance in prior majors, where she attained commendable finishes, the Frenchwoman arrived on Sunday’s final round leading the pack after a marvelous 4-under 67 on Saturday. She carried this momentum to her final round, carding an impressive 68, comfortably securing her six-stroke victory over the 2022 champion, Brooke Henderson.
Starting her final round with consecutive birdies and adding another on the par-3 5th hole, Boutier showcased her ability to maintain composure under pressure. Battling challenging weather conditions, she admirably navigated the demanding stretch of holes at the Evian Resort Golf Club, persevering through seven pars. Although she encountered a minor setback with a dropped shot on the par-4 13th, Boutier quickly rebounded with a decisive birdie on the par-5 15th, ultimately finishing at 14-under for the tournament. Her strategy, resilience, and precision proved to be the winning formula.
Boutier’s triumph at the Evian Championship not only granted her the coveted title but also cemented her place as the first Frenchwoman to achieve this historic feat. Her remarkable victory has undoubtedly elevated her stature within the sport, and it further validates her potential to earn a spot on the European team in the upcoming Solheim Cup. However, Boutier remains grounded and focuses solely on the joy of her recent accomplishment, commenting, “Nothing else matters now that I have this trophy, so I’m really good for the rest of the year.”
Celine Boutier’s incredible achievement in winning the Evian Championship will undoubtedly inspire future generations of French golfers, serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and unwavering dedication. As she continues to leave an indelible mark on the sport, Boutier’s success serves as a reminder of the immense talent and determination present within the world of women’s golf.
The Business Press 