In the heart of Lake Elmo, Minnesota, Kiara Romero is making waves in the world of professional golf, and she’s doing it with a smile that lights up the course. The junior from Oregon stepped into the limelight during her LPGA debut at the prestigious Standard Portland Classic, where she wasn’t just another face in the crowd; she was the No. 1 amateur in the world, buoyed by a sea of enthusiastic Ducks fans. For most amateurs, the pressure of such a significant event could be overwhelming, but not for Romero, who thrived in the spotlight, transforming what could have been a nerve-wracking experience into a home game feel.
As she embarks on her third season in college golf, Romero is not just aiming to compete; she’s setting her sights on professional glory. This week, she’s teeing off at the Annika Intercollegiate, held at the Royal Golf Club, the very course where she made a stunning debut two years ago. The trajectory of her career has skyrocketed since then, propelled by her ambitions and the newly introduced LPGA Elite Amateur Pathway (LEAP) program. This initiative opens the door to professional status for top amateurs, and Romero is determined to seize the opportunity.
Romero has been riding a wave of momentum and excitement, stating, “It’s been a lot of fun playing on the LPGA, a few events there, and playing on TV quite a bit these past few weeks. It’s just been amazing. And it kind of just makes it a lot more fun out there.” Her talent is no secret; it shone brightly last month during the U.S. Women’s Amateur, where she executed a jaw-dropping driver off the deck on the final hole of the quarterfinals, forcing extra holes and showcasing her competitive spirit.
Following her electrifying performance at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, Romero made her LPGA debut in Portland, finishing in the top 10, which secured her entry into the next tournament in Canada. There, she again made the cut, accumulating three crucial points towards her LEAP total, bringing her to 14 points. The path to earning an LPGA card is becoming clearer, and with only six points needed to reach the coveted 20, the anticipation surrounding her journey is palpable.
Romero’s ascent is remarkable, especially considering that just a few months ago, she had only a couple of LEAP points. The establishment of LEAP has revolutionized pathways for aspiring professionals, reminiscent of the PGA Tour University program. The first player to earn her LPGA card through LEAP, Lottie Woad, not only achieved that milestone but also triumphed in her pro debut at the Scottish Open, raising the stakes for upcoming talents like Romero.
Despite the spotlight, Romero remains focused on one shot at a time, emphasizing, “It provides another path to the LPGA, but as for right now, I don’t think it changes much perspective-wise. My goals for right now, just kind of focusing on each tournament as it is and not worrying about it too much.” Her perspective is grounded, reflecting her maturity as she navigates the competitive landscape.
This summer, Romero made history by recording a final round of 5-under 67 at the U.S. Women’s Open, the lowest score ever posted by an amateur during the last round. Her accomplishments have not gone unnoticed; she played for the U.S. Palmer Cup team and briefly ascended to the top of the World Amateur Golf Ranking. After securing the McCormack Medal following the U.S. Women’s Amateur, her point tally climbed to 12 in a mere 2.5 months, solidifying her position as a formidable contender.
Looking ahead, Romero’s future is bright, filled with opportunities to earn points in major tournaments, including the upcoming 2026 U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera. She is also poised to represent the United States in the Curtis Cup, which will add two more points to her LEAP total. With additional opportunities for points through prestigious accolades such as the Annika Award and the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, Romero is on the brink of greatness.
As she competes in the Annika Intercollegiate, Romero is currently in striking distance of the top after bouncing back from a challenging start. Her resilience was evident as she finished with a stellar 3-under 69 on Tuesday, showcasing her ability to handle pressure and adapt on the course. As she reflects on her journey, her aspirations crystallize: winning a national championship, while taking a moment to appreciate her remarkable evolution from a starry-eyed freshman to a top-tier competitor.
Romero’s story is not just about golf; it’s a testament to perseverance, talent, and the thrill of competition. With each swing, she is not just chasing a dream; she is redefining what’s possible for young golfers everywhere. As she stands poised to transition from amateur to professional, one thing is certain: Kiara Romero is a name that will resonate in the world of golf for years to come.
