A thrilling final day at the Lacoste Ladies Open de France concluded with Chiara Tamburlini claiming her second Ladies European Tour victory after a play-off win over Kirsten Rudgeley.
Both players finished at seven-under-par, leading to a playoff on the 18th hole at Golf Barriere where Tamburlini secured the win with a birdie, outshining Rudgeley’s effort.
This win marks Tamburlini’s second victory of 2024, following her success at the Joburg Ladies Open earlier in the season.
Reflecting on her win, Tamburlini shared, “It was way too stressful! Kirsten played incredibly well today, especially on the back nine. She was tough to keep up with. The birdie on 17 during regular play was crucial, and the birdie in the playoff was amazing. It all happened so quickly, I can’t believe it!”
Tamburlini began the day with a one-shot lead over Annabel Dimmock, with Rudgeley trailing by four strokes in Deauville. Despite a nervous start where Tamburlini dropped three shots on the front nine, she managed to pull ahead with three consecutive birdies from the 8th hole.
Rudgeley staged a strong comeback on the back nine with birdies on 11, 12, 15, and 16 to take the lead. However, Tamburlini’s exceptional approach on the par-3 17th tied the match and forced a playoff after shooting an even par round of 71.
Magical approach
In the playoff, Tamburlini showcased her skill with an impressive approach shot that nearly went in, settling seven feet away. Rudgeley’s birdie attempt fell short, allowing Tamburlini to sink her putt for the victory.
Reflecting on her performance, Tamburlini shared, “It was a rollercoaster day. My game wasn’t at its best, especially in the beginning. But I kept reminding myself that it’s not over until the 18th hole. Fortunately, it all worked out in the end.”
Manon de Roey from Belgium secured third place, just one shot behind the leaders, with a final round of 66. Dimmock finished with a one-over 72, tying for fourth place with Noora Komulainen and Virginia Elena Carta.
For all the scores from the Lacoste Ladies Open de France, click here.
