You played your first LPGA tournament in early August in Ohio. What are the main differences with the Symetra Tour? Marion Ricordeau recently told us * that you are treated like a princess on the LPGA…

Participating in my first tournament on the LPGA is one of the best memories of this strange year 2020. I agree with Marion, we are really well treated and it is heartwarming! The club house and the course are in perfect condition to accommodate the players. We have good breakfasts and lunches served every day in the "player lounge", new golf balls and gloves are waiting for us in the locker rooms, club fitters can modify the clubs or change the grips if necessary, the sponsors and spectators are happy to have the best players in the world in their region… One more reason to play well on the Symetra and get my full card on the LPGA.

Like many of your compatriots, you studied at an American university in Texas. Do you think this is essential for a French player who wants to perform at the highest level?

I don't think it's essential. Some players turn pro at a very young age, do not go through the “American university” box and do just as well. In my case, studying for four years in college has allowed me to grow as a person and improve as a golfer. I was able to adjust to American life, playing American golf courses where the types of grass and the length of the courses are different, while also getting a degree. I would definitely do it again!

How did you experience this season unlike any other? 

The year 2020 is definitely a weird year for everyone. And for us golfers too. It's a bit of a blank year, since whatever our results, each Symetra or LPGA player will start the 2021 season with the category obtained for 2020. So I use this season to play as many tournaments as possible, improve and get to know my game better to feel ready in 2021. To date, the Top 10 on the Symetra ranking is my main goal.

Your dream as a golfer?

I have the impression that it evolves every year. Winning on the Symetra Tour in the very near future would be one. And in the years to come, to become one of the best players on the LPGA.

What is the best memory of your career?

I have a lot of great memories (laughs). Playing my first LPGA tournament and training alongside Lexi Thompson, Lydia Ko, Jessica and Nelly Korda, Danielle Kang… it was quite a unique experience! I also won in September on the WAPT (Womens All Pro Tour). The tournament was being played on my course in Beaumont, Texas, and since I didn't have a tournament on the Symetra, I signed up. It was a great week, the course was very well prepared, a lot of Symetra players participated, the level was solid. Winning a tournament surrounded by my friends and sponsors will be one of my best memories, for sure!

Your worst memory? 

I do not know. I make sure to forget them to continue to progress… (laughs)

How old were you when you started golf?

I hit my first balls at the age of 7 at the golf course in Nice, my hometown.

What is your strong point and your weak point?

I added a long putter in the bag a few weeks ago and I feel a lot better putting. I am also very solid with my “mid-irons” (9 and 8 iron). Otherwise, I wouldn't say it's a weak point, but if I could gain a few meters driving it would help me a lot…

Your best score?

-6 at Brown Deer Golf Course in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the same course where Tiger made his debut as a professional player.

Is there a player you admire?

I had the opportunity to see Minjee Lee (6th in the world) play at the Marathon Classic in Ohio. I love his game, his behavior and his swing. I think I can learn a lot from a player like her.

Your favorite course, in France and abroad?

The golf course at Chateau de Taulane in the South of France has always been my favorite course. The course is fun and always well maintained. We play in the sun, with the fresh mountain air, surrounded by fir trees and beautiful landscapes. In the USA, I had the chance to play the Dinah Shore in Palm Springs, California. This is the course for the ANA Inspiration, I love the location and the design of the course.

What do you think is the most common fault among hobbyists?

In my opinion, many amateurs are not rational enough. There is no such thing as perfect golf, it is a game of percentage and strategy. I often see amateurs trying to hit a wood from the rough through the trees or trying to put in a 15 yard putt and finish with a 3 putts… then get disappointed or pissed off when it happens! The percentage of success for this kind of move is very low. On the other hand, to put in a putt of 1 meter, to put a drive on the fairway or to make a good refocusing… these blows must have a much higher percentage of success and make it possible to return a better score at the arrival. When an amateur passes this milestone and understands this strategic aspect, there are a lot less points that are wasted.

What are your interests, your passions outside of golf? 

I love to cook and eat healthy. When I have free time, I go to look for good fruits, vegetables, fish, fresh meat to concoct good recipes. During my forties, I started taking online courses on "Sports Nutrition", I am very interested in it.

Interview by Franck Crudo

*https://swing-feminin.com/marion-ricordeau-quand-vous-jouez-sur-le-lpga-vous-avez-limpression-detre-une-princesse