Swedish Rookie Clinches Emotional Win With Final-Round 68, Secures Spot in Major Tournaments
It was a moment years in the making. With a powerful performance and calm under pressure, Ingrid Lindblad, the 25-year-old Swedish rookie, captured her first LPGA Tour victory at the JM Eagle LA Championship, finishing at 21-under par at El Caballero Country Club.
After years of collegiate dominance and a strong showing on the Epson Tour, Lindblad’s transition to the LPGA stage is now marked by a victory that signals the start of what could be a storied career.
A Bracelet, A Motto, A Champion
As Lindblad walked the fairways, one message remained close to her heart—“Be where your feet are.”
It was a phrase engraved on a friendship bracelet given to her by former LSU assistant coach Alexis Rather, later customized to include “IFL”—short for Ingrid (Expletive) Lindblad.
“It was just about being present, playing confident, being who I am,” said Lindblad. “That bracelet reminded me to stay grounded and trust myself.”
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From Amateur Star to LPGA Winner
Lindblad was once the world’s top-ranked amateur and enjoyed a five-year All-American run at LSU. She won on the Epson Tour last season, which gave her a taste of professional success. Still, an LPGA win seemed like a distant goal until Sunday’s breakthrough performance.
Highlights of Lindblad’s Career Before LPGA Win:
- 5-time All-American at LSU
- Ranked #1 Amateur in the World
- Winner on the Epson Tour (2024)
- Represented Sweden in international competitions
“I kept telling the media, winning wasn’t such a crazy goal,” she said. “And now here we are. I guess I should start setting even bigger goals.”
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Final Round Drama: Victory By a Stroke
Entering the final round in a three-way tie for the lead, Lindblad shot a steady 4-under 68. The championship came down to the final holes, where fellow rookie Akie Iwai had a chance to force a playoff but missed a crucial putt, handing Lindblad a one-stroke win.
“I didn’t even watch her putt,” said Lindblad. “I just stayed in my zone. I had done all I could.”
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An Emotional Celebration
The win wasn’t just a professional milestone—it was a deeply personal moment. Lindblad’s mother, Cecilia, had arrived in the U.S. just a week before traveling with her daughter for a month. The two embraced in a tearful hug after the final putt dropped.
Champagne Showers and Swedish Pride
Fellow Swede and LPGA winner Madelene Sagstrom, who won the T-Mobile Match Play the week prior, was among the first to celebrate. She waited near the green with a bottle of champagne and doused Lindblad in bubbly.
“This was always going to happen,” Sagstrom said. “But seeing it for real is just incredible. She’s one of the best I’ve seen.”
Sagstrom even guided Cecilia to the 18th green for the trophy ceremony—creating a symbolic moment, as it was 21 years ago that Annika Sörenstam last won at “El Cab” in what became her 50th career win.
What’s Next for Ingrid Lindblad?
This win comes at the perfect time as Lindblad heads into The Chevron Challenge, the LPGA’s first major of the year at The Club at Carlton Woods in Texas. Even better, her victory earns her a direct spot in the U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills—no qualification needed.
What Lindblad Gains With the Win:
- $562,500 prize purse
- Exemption into the Chevron Challenge
- Qualification for the U.S. Women’s Open
- Boost in Rolex Women’s World Rankings
“We’re Not Here to Mess Around”
Lindblad becomes the second rookie to win on the LPGA Tour this season, following Rio Takeda. Akie Iwai has now finished as runner-up twice.
“The competition is strong, but we’re ready,” Lindblad said. “We’re not here to mess around. We came to win—and this proves it.”
First Class Dreams and Future Goals
After Saturday’s round, Lindblad joked about upgrading her and her mom’s flight to first class if she won. Unfortunately, the seats were already sold out.
“It’s unbelievable,” said her mother, Cecilia. “She’s been taking it step by step since she was five. Same coach all the way. It’s been a long journey.”
A Star in the Making
With confidence, humility, and a powerful swing, Ingrid Lindblad is not just a rookie anymore—she’s a champion. As she steps into the spotlight, fans and experts alike are wondering: Is this the beginning of the next great Swedish golf legacy?