Suddenly the water and bunkers were all too evident. Previously unnoticed, they represented a big threat to a life-changing moment.
However, Annabell Fuller from Britain proved to be more than capable of conquering the final hole at Al Madden Golf in Marrakech, Morocco. Two months have passed since she birdied that challenging par-five hole, and now she finds herself competing alongside some of the most prominent names in women’s golf.
Notable players such as US star Lexi Thompson and European Solheim Cup participants Leona Maguire, Carlotta Ciganda, Charley Hull, Georgia Hall, and Gemma Dryburgh are headlining the impressive field in the £3.96m Aramco Saudi Ladies International tournament this week.
Fuller has also earned her place in the starting lineup in Riyadh. This is a well-deserved reward for her outstanding performance as the leading amateur at the Ladies European Tour Qualifying School in Morocco last December.
The 22-year-old golfer from Surrey showcased remarkable consistency throughout the eight crucial rounds, ultimately securing a share of fifth place. These rounds were undoubtedly some of the most significant moments in her career so far.
Fuller embarked on her Q School journey by participating in pre-qualifying, which consisted of three rounds at the Noria Golf Club in Marrakech. In an interview with BBC Sport, she shared her initial mindset, stating, “I honestly went to the first stage thinking I’d go there and just see if I could play good golf.”
Fuller had a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that if she didn’t make it through, it would simply be another week of golf, and she would return to college and continue with her life. At the time of LET pre-qualifying, she had one semester remaining at the University of Florida, making it her primary focus.
During the pre-qualifying rounds, Fuller experienced a stress-free environment for a couple of days, which she found enjoyable. She expressed, “I was just hitting it and not really making any big mistakes, so it was just really enjoyable.” Additionally, having her mother as her caddie contributed to her relaxed state of mind.
Fuller emerged victorious in the tournament and effortlessly advanced to the five round final stage just three days later. “I maintained that mindset,” she remarked. “Let’s focus on making the cut first, and then I’ll concern myself with whatever comes next.”
By the time she reached the final tee of the fifth round, she had achieved an eagle and 24 birdies. Her tour card was nearly secured.
“It was only on the last hole that I started feeling truly nervous,” Fuller confessed. “It’s not the easiest finishing hole. The drive is flanked by bunkers on the right and water on the left, while the approach shot has water on the right side of the green.”
The potential challenges flooded her mind. “If you choose to lay up, there’s water waiting, and bunkers are positioned on both sides of the green,” she explained.
Entering one of those water hazards can be quite concerning, especially with the water so close to the green. Prior to that final round, I had never witnessed the water being in such proximity to the green. Therefore, hitting that closing drive became a moment of great significance. I made a decision to swing as forcefully as possible, accepting that the outcome would be whatever it may be,” she further explained.
Within moments of the tee shot splitting the fairway, her caddie, Oshi, was overcome with tears of joy, pride, and relief. Fuller executed a precise approach shot onto the green and calmly completed the hole with two putts, securing a birdie.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she exclaimed. “I had accomplished what I had practiced and strived for my entire life. In that moment, I wondered, ‘What’s next? Should I turn professional?'”
This presented an immediate dilemma as leaving Florida prematurely is a difficult decision after enjoying successful years as a player for the ‘Gators’ while studying English.
While pursuing her degree online, she aims to reap the advantages of transitioning to the professional ranks. “I informed my coach that if I obtained my card, I would postpone it until May and then commence playing on the LET,” Fuller clarified.
“However, during Q School, I discovered that if I obtained my card, I had to make a decision by January 15th. Consequently, I had to assert my membership, which can only be done as a professional.
“My coach, Emily Glaser, emphasized that this is what we had prepared you for – the team will miss you, we truly want you here, but you must prioritize what is best for yourself and seize the opportunity.”
Fuller experienced the harsh realities of the professional world during her debut in Kenya last week, narrowly missing the cut by a single stroke. Now, she is preparing to participate in Saudi Arabia for the LET’s most prestigious event.
“If I manage to make the cut, it will greatly benefit me,” she expressed with a smile. “My father has been saving up for this moment throughout my entire life, and I am fortunate to have sponsors and support from individuals who want to see me succeed.”
“Hopefully, if I perform well in the initial tournaments, it will alleviate some of the pressure,” she added.
She acknowledged the daunting reality that every shot, every putt, and every mistake she makes will have significant consequences, far beyond a few points in the amateur world ranking.
“Its consequences are significant. I strive to maintain the mindset that if I perform well, I will receive greater rewards and have more opportunities to explore other endeavors.”
Fuller finds inspiration in the successful careers of her fellow English golfers, Hall and Hull, who have established themselves on the LPGA Tour. “I observed them while growing up and playing alongside my sister, Samantha.”
“Observing their achievements, I endeavor to emulate their path.”
She possesses a valuable perspective and acknowledges the words of an American Ryder Cup star. “Max Homa once stated, ‘Golf is an unpredictable sport. You are just one swing away from winning the Masters and one swing away from contemplating quitting the game’.”
Fuller expressed, “This statement holds true.” She further added, “On a personal level, my objective is to continue enjoying the game and ensure that I don’t dwell too much on the financial aspect. I have informed my father that I will give it a try for three years without letting money consume my thoughts. After three years, we will evaluate the situation and see if I have taken all his money,” she chuckled.
In a more serious tone, her aspirations align with someone who has represented Great Britain and Ireland three times in the Curtis Cup. “I am genuinely thrilled and eagerly anticipate experiencing life on tour,” she stated.
“Ultimately, it would be incredible to come close to winning the rookie of the year title. You only get one chance at that.”
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