Woad reflects on special memories returning to defend title at 2026 ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open
Defending champion arrives at Dundonald Links with LPGA Tour pedigree as Denmark’s Nicole Broch Estrup continues her inspiring tour return
Korea - World No. 5 Lottie Woad returns to Dundonald Links in Ayrshire this week to defend her crown at the 2026 ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open. Exactly one year ago, the English star made headlines globally by claiming victory on her professional debut at this very event. Returning with an additional LPGA Tour title now under her belt, Woad expressed fond nostalgia for the links layout while noting that recent warm UK weather has made the turf considerably firmer and faster compared to last year’s softer conditions.
“I definitely have special memories and positive ones coming into this week,” Woad remarked ahead of the $2 million co-sanctioned showcase between the LET and LPGA Tour. “Coming here last year, I was coming off a good stretch and everything happened pretty quickly... now it’s been a year and I’ve had time to reflect on it, it’s definitely more special than maybe I thought at the time. You’re getting more run off the tee and have shorter clubs in, but you can still be pretty aggressive.” In a nostalgic pairing repeat, Woad will play her opening two rounds alongside World No. 1 Nelly Korda and home favorite Charley Hull.
Meanwhile, Denmark’s Nicole Broch Estrup makes a milestone return to European soil, marking her first LET appearance in 17 months following the birth of her son, Max. Having already tested the waters on the LPGA Tour with a solid T14 finish at the ShopRite LPGA Classic and a T12 at the Dow Championship, the Danish star expressed immense excitement to reunite with her LET peers and bring her newborn son to the tournament grounds.
The 144-player field, representing 33 nationalities, will compete at Dundonald Links across four days from July 23–26 as players tune up for next week’s final Major of the European summer.