Both Teasdale and Queensland’s Jordan O’Brien finished the 36-hole tournament at 1 under par, with Teasdale securing victory on the first play-off hole.
O’Brien needed something special to push the tournament into an extra hole, allowing an eagle on her final hole to equal Teasdale’s one-under score.
But it was the debutant who won and gave her an astonishing start to her professional career.
“It’s weird to think I can actually compete as a professional,” Teasdale said.
“It boosted my confidence, especially since I miss it. Especially since last week didn’t go according to plan and it wasn’t the best start.
“I was quite nervous for a few days, but I calmed down and today everything went as planned.”
Despite turbulent conditions that forced a delay in the first round, Teasdale shot a par 72 for his share of the fourth round before the second round.
With sunny skies and only a light wind, Teasdale climbed to the top of the leaderboard with a round 1-under 71, finishing level with O’Brien and two strokes ahead of fellow Western Australians Kathryn Norris (74), New South’s Claire Shin (73). Wales and Japan’s Hinata Ikeba (72).
“I’ve had a lot of trouble hitting the ball and standing over it for too long, so I wasn’t sure I would come to this event even though I was playing well,” said Teasdale, who missed the field during last week’s Webex Perth Players Series.
PHOTO: WPGA Tour of Australasia.
“But I kept trying to work with what I had.
“I was hitting the ball well, I was just trying to get it closer and hope that even scores were enough.”
Since gaining status with the WPGA Tour of Australasia Qualifying School on New Year’s Eve, Teasdale said turning professional has already been an eye-opener.
“I realize I have to put in a lot more work than I already have because this is literally my career,” she added.
“The reality is that not having money is not a pleasant feeling, so it definitely opens your eyes to how hard you have to work.”
The 22-year-old’s victory will increase her chances of securing a spot at the remaining WPGA Tour events in 2025, including three co-sanctioned Ladies European Tour events.
In the meantime, the West Australian is focusing on trying to play to the best of her ability.
“My main goal was to earn the highest Order of Merit possible,” Teasdale said.
“I had no guarantee that I would attend all the events, so I hope that this will allow me to attend many more events than I had planned.
I just want to stay at the top of the leaderboard and try to do my best. Not just to be on top, but to show myself that I can do it.
Teasdale will next compete in the Webex Players Series Victoria at Rosebud Country Club, which begins next Thursday, followed by the Vic Open in February.
– Paul Munnings.
© Golf Australia. All rights reserved.
