In this candid and inspiring full interview, rising LPGA Tour star Anne Chen opens up about her pathway from Duke University golf to capturing her first professional title and earning LPGA Tour membership. Filmed as part of the Women of Golf Show, Chen reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and mindset that have shaped her game heading into the 2026 LPGA season.
From dramatic playoff pressure to long‑term goals on the LPGA Tour, her story resonates with competitors and golf fans alike. Here’s what Chen shared in her detailed conversation.
Earning Her LPGA Tour Card: A Milestone Moment
Anne Chen’s breakthrough came at the 2025 Epson Tour Championship at Indian Wells, where she clinched her first professional victory in dramatic fashion. After four rounds of consistent scoring and a gripping five‑hole playoff, she emerged victorious and secured her place on the LPGA Tour for the 2026 season.
On that defining week in California:
“It’s a feeling I can’t quite put into words yet. Playing solid golf all week, staying patient, and then battling through that playoff … it really taught me a lot about trusting my game when it matters most.”
Chen’s performance under pressure, especially clutch shots late in the tournament, showcased her resilience and poise. Her Epson Tour success helped her move inside the top 15 on the season‑long Race for the Card standings, earning full LPGA status.
From College Golf to the Professional Ranks
A graduate of Duke University’s women’s golf program, Chen’s time as a Blue Devil laid the foundation for her professional ambitions. College golf taught her to balance competitive intensity with strategic thinking, skills she says remain critical now that she’s playing for bigger stakes week after week.
She reminisced about her development years and how collegiate competition prepared her for life on tour:
“College golf was where I learned consistency, discipline, and how to bounce back from setbacks. On the Epson Tour and now looking toward the LPGA, that mindset carries over every day.”
Chen’s journey reflects a common pathway for many emerging LPGA players who transition from standout college careers to professional success.
Mindset, Practice, and Growth
When asked about her approach to improvement, Chen emphasised both mental and technical focus. She described how uncertainty early in a tournament can shift to confidence through consistent preparation and sticking to routines on the range and course.
On staying focused under pressure:
“Golf is as much mental as it is physical. I’ve learned that confidence comes from preparation, not just results. When I trust my process, I can compete with anyone.”
This balance between technical skill and mental preparation has been central to her rapid rise in professional golf circles.
Looking Ahead: The LPGA Tour and Beyond
With her LPGA Tour card secured, Chen has clearly set her sights on making an impact at the highest level of women’s golf. She spoke about the excitement of teeing it up alongside the world’s best players and the opportunities that lie ahead.
“I can’t wait to test myself against the strongest fields in the world. Every tournament is a chance to learn, grow, and compete at the highest level.”
Her goals extend beyond simply making cuts; she aims to contend regularly, improve her world ranking, and represent a new generation of American golfers on tour.
Closing Thoughts
Anne Chen’s interview offers a thoughtful, grounded perspective on what it takes to succeed in professional golf. From earning her LPGA Tour card after a dramatic Epson Tour victory to embracing the next chapter of her career, her journey is a testament to patience, preparation, and passion for the game.
For fans of the LPGA Tour, upcoming seasons will be an exciting time to follow Chen’s growth as she transitions into full‑time competition among golf’s elite.
Explore more player stories and LPGA interviews in Golfism’s Interviews section.
