By: Neal Maidment
WA’s Kirsten Rudgeley is relishing the prospect of life as a touring professional after earning her Ladies’ European Tour (LET) card for 2023.
The Mount Lawley golfer came through LET Q-School in November to earn full playing privileges for the 2023 season, which commences in Kenya in the first week of February.
The LET announced a blockbuster season schedule in December that includes 30 events in 21 countries and a record-breaking total prize pool of at least €35m/$54.6m.
Rudgeley excelled in the amateur ranks, winning several significant titles at home and abroad, and representing WA and Australia on multiple occasions. Last February, she showed she has what it takes to succeed in the professional arena by winning the WPGA’s Athena tournament while still an amateur.
Although her confidence is on a high, Rudgeley accepts that life on tour may not be a walk in the park. “I’m not putting too much pressure on myself, but I’ve got to play every tournament the best I can to get up the money list and to build my confidence,” she said. “I’m training harder in the gym, and working on fine-tuning the weaker areas of my game.”
Kirsten Rudgeley enjoyed a stellar amateur career
Rudgeley is excited to be joining a tour that is on an upward trajectory after sitting in the shadow of the LPGA for many years. “I think the LET is in a great state at the moment and it’s encouraging to see the tour moving toward the same level as the LPGA,” she said. “I’m looking forward to enjoying the ride.”
Twenty-one-year-old Rudgeley has every reason to feel optimistic about her future but acknowledges that the support and opportunities provided by GolfWA and Golf Australia have played an important role in her journey.
“I am grateful to GolfWA and Golf Australia for offering me so many playing opportunities through the years,” she added. “They have been so encouraging and helped me gain so much experience, as well as many amazing memories.”
If you’re a junior with ambitions to follow in Kirsty’s footsteps, check out the junior golf opportunities available through GolfWA here.
