In a dazzling display of skill and composure, 16-year-old Chiara Noja captured her first victory on the Ladies European Tour at the Aramco Team Series Jeddah.
In an unforgettable showdown, Noja outshone her childhood idol, Charley Hull, clinching the win in a dramatic play-off.
Noja’s exceptional final round of 65, the lowest of the tournament, propelled her into contention for the $75,000 first prize.
Despite the immense pressure, the Dubai-based high school senior remained calm, securing her victory with consecutive birdies in the play-off.
Reflecting on her triumph, Noja was both astonished and grateful, acknowledging the profound significance of her victory.
With a touch of humour, she mentioned her initial aim of winning to avoid returning to school.
Adding a sentimental touch to her journey, Noja’s father shared a nostalgic photo of her and Hull from a decade ago, highlighting the surreal nature of her achievement.
Nicole Garcia also made headlines, thrilling spectators with an eagle on the 18th hole to secure third place individually.
Garcia’s impact didn’t stop there; she led her team to victory in the team competition, marking her second win as captain.
In a nail-biting play-off against Team Wolf, Team Garcia emerged victorious with a decisive birdie, thanks to Garcia’s strategic leadership and teammate Cassandra Alexander’s clutch performance.
Amidst the celebrations, amateur Sonia Bayahya, a key member of Team Garcia, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the experience and camaraderie she found during the event.
The Jeddah event concluded the 2022 Aramco Team Series, a prestigious series that has become a highlight of the Ladies European Tour calendar.
As the golfing world revels in Noja’s meteoric rise and Team Garcia’s triumph, excitement builds for the future of the sport.
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