Aditi Ashok exhibited both skill and composure, maintaining her poise in the crucial final moments to secure a thrilling two-shot triumph over Dutch golfer Anne Van Dam at the Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open, marking the conclusion of the Ladies European Tour season on Sunday.

 

 

Aditi Ashok Clinches Thrilling Victory at Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open

 

 

Also Read: Bhullar's Tactical Brilliance Secures Crown at BNI Indonesian Masters

 

The 25-year-old concluded her LET season in remarkable fashion, bookending the year with victories. Her first win came at the Magical Kenya Ladies Open in February, where she dominated the field with a nine-shot lead. The recent triumph in Spain is particularly significant for the Bengaluru native, marking her most substantial victory and earning her a winner's purse of €97,500.

 

 

Aditi Ashok concluded the tournament at an impressive 17-under par (69, 68, 68, 66 = 271), securing the top spot ahead of Anne Van Dam (69, 71, 65, 68 = 273). Diksha Dagar, another Indian golfer, finished tied for seventh at 10-under (72, 71, 68, 67 = 278) and claimed the third spot in the Race to Costa Del Sol (LET Order of Merit) rankings. Despite only participating in eight events, Ashok secured the fourth position in the season-long rankings. Thailand’s Trichat Cheenglab clinched the overall title despite finishing tied for 55th.

 

 

Aditi Ashok's Dual Triumphs Mark a Pinnacle Season on the LET

 

 

Ashok's stellar season showcased the positive impact of changes made to her swing, elevating her game to new heights. Alongside her two LET victories, she secured second place in the Saudi Ladies International and third place in the Lalla Meryem Cup, both in February. Additionally, she won a silver medal in the Hangzhou Asian Games.

 

 

The final rounds of the Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open saw a captivating duel between Ashok and Van Dam. The turning point occurred on the 15th hole, where Van Dam faced challenges, allowing Ashok to capitalize with a crucial birdie. Ashok's precision on subsequent holes, including a birdie on the 17th, secured her a two-shot lead heading into the final hole.

 

 

The concluding moments on the 18th added further drama as Ashok navigated the rough and a bunker to seal the victory with a strategic approach. Van Dam's pursuit of a birdie fell short, ensuring Ashok's well-deserved triumph.

 

 

“I started slow and missed some birdies, but glad it picked up on the back nine,” a delighted Aditi said after receiving the winner’s trophy. “It was a great battle, especially Anna when she plays well...she is a great player.”

 

 

Aditi added: “She hit the trees and I made a great putt. That was the switch moment. And I made sure I had a good look at par on the 18th.”

 

Also Read: Slum Golf Season 1 Review: Unpacking Narratives, Characters, and Societal Relevance