Just weeks ago, 21-year-old English golfer Lottie Woad stunned the LPGA world by clinching the Women’s Scottish Open. It was the kind of dream finish young pros live for—calm under pressure, birdies when it mattered most, and a payday that read $300,000. But now, she might be about to lose a big slice of that check… and not because of anything that happened on the course.

During her media rounds ahead of the AIG Women’s Open, Woad talked about what she plans to do with the money. “I need to get a car in America, so I’ll probably buy a car, yeah,” she smiled. A new car? Sounds like a fair reward. But depending on how the tax cards fall, that budget may shrink quicker than her backswing. With one foot in the UK and another in the U.S. college circuit, Woad might be looking at a tricky tax situation—and possibly a hefty bill from both sides of the Atlantic.

Why her $300K might not be all hers

The LPGA’s payout headlines always catch eyes, but the fine print is what matters most, especially for international players like Woad. Since she won the Scottish Open on home soil, UK tax officials (HMRC) could take a bite out of her winnings. But that’s just the start.

Here’s where things get murky: Woad has been based in the U.S. as a college athlete and is transitioning into the pro ranks. If she’s considered a U.S. resident for tax purposes—or even if she just earns income in the States—she might be subject to up to 30% in U.S. tax withholding. Add in UK obligations, and suddenly, a significant portion of that $300K could vanish into paperwork and payments before it hits her bank account.

Augusta National Women’s Amateur Lottie Woad ENG, winner of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, USA. 06/04/2024 Picture Fran Caffrey / Golffile.ie All photo usage must carry mandatory copyright credit Golffile Fran Caffrey Augusta Augusta National Golf Club Georgia USA Copyright: xFranxCaffreyx *EDI*
Credit: Golffile Fran Caffrey via Imago

And unlike long-established pros with teams of tax experts, Woad is just starting. That means navigating tax treaties, dual-income filings, and residency rules—none of which are exactly covered in college golf. Unless she’s already looped in a good CPA or agent, she may be in for a rough few months off the course.

This kind of financial curveball isn’t new in golf. Other pros—especially rookies and internationals—have seen first wins turn into tax-season nightmares. That doesn’t take away from Woad’s performance one bit, but it’s the reality of the global golf grind.

She’s not bothered—her focus is still on the game.

Still, if you think all this financial buzz is distracting Woad, think again. She’s been all business heading into Royal Porthcawl for the AIG Women’s Open. Calm, composed, and refreshingly honest, she told reporters she hasn’t had time to reflect on her rise just yet. “I don’t feel too different, to be honest,” she said. “I got a lot of confidence from the last month. Just trying to continue to ride that.”

Despite it being her first major as a pro, Woad enters the tournament as one of the betting favorites. Her performance at the Evian—nearly chasing down the leaders—proved she’s more than just a one-week wonder. And even Nelly Korda has taken notice. “She’s amazing,” Korda stated, giving props to the rising Brit.

Woad’s keeping it grounded, though. She spent her post-win Sunday on a seven-hour drive with her parents. No wild celebrations, no flashy spending—just time with family and the realization that her career is about to go full throttle. “I’ve really been just enjoying myself,” she said. “Just try to have fun with it and not add too much stress.”

Lottie Woad earned every bit of her Scottish Open win, and that $300K check symbolized more than money—it was a breakthrough. But now, with tax complications likely to knock off a hefty chunk, her reward might look a little leaner. Still, whether she drives off in a new car or has to wait a bit longer, one thing’s clear: Woad’s got the game, the mentality, and the moment. And even the IRS can’t take that away.

The post LPGA Star Lottie Woad to Lose Large Chunk of $300K Paycheck After Winning on Pro Debut appeared first on EssentiallySports.