Only one step separates Quebec golfer Josée Doyon from obtaining a card for participation in the 2025 LPGA calendar.
Between December 5 and 9, five rounds will be played on two courses located at Magnolia Grove Golf Club, Alabama.
At the end of the competition, the 25 highest ranked players (excluding possible ties) will see their dream come true and will graduate from the “Q-Series” to the most prestigious professional circuit.
“I am very motivated to have reached this point. This is the first time I have reached the final qualifying phase. It’s an important step in the progression of my career,” she confided in an interview with 5 to 7two days before the start of the ultimate competition.
“I have to see it and attack it like a tournament like all the others, even if it is very important, I am aware of it. I am already proud of the year 2024 that I had. I still want to achieve my ultimate goal, I've been working for this for a long time. »
The alternative, that of continuing to play on the Epson Tour, the LPGA development circuit, is not as enchanting, but would not be the end of the world either.
“It would help me a lot to get my card. Scholarships are becoming more and more interesting in women's golf. That would give me great visibility. At the same time, the Epson Tour [anciennement connu sous le nom de Symetra Tour, NDLR]it's getting better and better too, especially in terms of scholarships, if I compare with what is done among men, with the Korn Ferry.
“Of course, playing in the LPGA gives access to better scholarships,” Doyon stressed, before being realistic by emphasizing that it is also “more expenses”.
On the fairways of Magnolia Grove Golf Club, Doyon considers that she could have an advantage, as a left-handed golfer.
“Some courses have not been designed for left-handers. This week, we will play on beautiful courses that I can visualize very well. To have a chance to qualify for the LPGA and to be one of the only left-handers there, that would be a great asset for me,” revealed the athlete from Saint-Georges.
The ups and downs of a professional golfer's career can be trying. In the case of Josée Doyon, it is easier to live from her passion on a day-to-day basis thanks to the presence of her partner André, who is also her junior.
“It helps a lot, because we are a team. (…) We are always on the road together, and it is as a team that we hope to reach the LPGA for next year. Let's go all out! »
