2024 AIG Women's Open: Lilia Vu set to defend her title

Lilia Vu, the reigning champion of the AIG Women’s Open, is set to defend her title this week on the iconic Old Course of St Andrews. For Vu, the experience is both surreal and deeply meaningful, as she prepares to take on one of golf's most storied venues.

Reflecting on the excitement of being at St Andrews for the first time, Vu expressed how special it feels to be competing at the home of golf. “It’s been so cool,” Vu shared, describing her experience playing the course during the Pro-Am on Tuesday and her first impressions of the back nine on Monday. “On Sunday night, on the way from Dundonald to here, we actually had a final send off for the AIG Women's Open trophy at the Dunvegan Arms,” she said, emphasising the historic significance and personal importance of the venue.

Inspiring the next generation

Vu’s connection with fans, particularly young aspiring golfers, is also something she cherishes. She recounted a memorable meet-and-greet session with young fans this week. Vu modestly downplayed her role as an inspiration, saying, “I don’t think I’m at that level yet, but it was really cool to meet them, and they were super cute with all their questions.” The interaction reminded her of the impact she can have on the next generation of golfers.

As she prepares to defend her title, Vu is acutely aware of the challenges ahead, especially given the unique pressures of playing at St Andrews. “It definitely feels different here at St Andrews, which is like the place that everyone wants to play,” Vu acknowledged. “There’s a little bit of pressure, but I think I know that it’s going to be a battle for everyone, not just me.”

Vu's approach to major championship golf is rooted in staying focused and disciplined. She believes that her ability to narrow her focus to the shot in front of her and “zone in” on each moment has been crucial to her success. “Everyone’s going to make mistakes. It’s just whoever makes the least mistakes out there,” she explained, demonstrating the mental toughness required to compete at the highest level.

Lilia Vu's first experience of St Andrews

Reflecting on her first experience playing St Andrews, Vu admitted that it took some adjustment, particularly with the double greens and the course's historic layout. “I think it was definitely an adjustment yesterday with the double greens,” she said, highlighting the course's challenges. “It’s pretty cool that they add up to 18. I think that’s the coolest part.”

The significance of her victory last year is not lost on Vu, who fondly recalls the moment and its impact on her career. “I don’t want to be cliche, but I got a cat from it that was my bribe with my dad last year,” she shared, alluding to the emotional and personal rewards that came with her triumph (she's also hoping to get another cat by the end of this week!).

No added pressure this week

Despite the pressure of defending her title, Vu remains focused on treating this week like any other tournament. “I’m not putting too much pressure on myself to defend the title,” she emphasised. “It’s a new week and a new golf course, and I’m just going to show up to the tournament the same way I do every single time.”

Vu's strategy for the week is clear: to remain grounded, play her game, and not let the weight of being the defending champion distract her from the task at hand. Whether playing alongside high-profile competitors like Nelly Korda and Charley Hull, as she is in the first two rounds, or navigating the unpredictable Scottish weather, Vu is ready to give it her all at St Andrews.

Tickets, including limited hospitality options, are still on sale for the AIG Women’s Open and can be purchased via the AIG Women’s Open ticket page here