As Lucie Malchirand carves her path in the professional golfing world, her story continues to inspire and captivate. Recently, Lucie was interviewed by “Le Figaro”, one of France’s leading newspapers, where she shared insights about her journey, challenges and aspirations.
Read the article in French here :
The translation in English is here :
“The young golfer from Cassis has nearly conquered the amateur circuit. Now, as an invitee to the Amundi Evian Championship, she sets her sights on excelling among the professional ranks. Accustomed to playing the Champions Course of Évian in youth tournaments, 18-year-old Lucie Malchirand, a talented new professional, is participating in the major tournament through a wild card.
LE FIGARO: Let’s start with your baccalaureate. How did it go?
Lucie MALCHIRAND: It went really well! I passed my science baccalaureate with high honors. My mother is very pleased.
At the end of May, you became the first French amateur to win a professional Ladies European Tour event…
I had planned to remain an amateur for at least another year and a half. I intended to play in the world amateur championships (to be held in France in 2022) and perhaps return to play at Augusta… But after winning in Italy, I gained access to playing opportunities I couldn’t pass up.
Has turning professional changed your life?
My life hasn’t changed dramatically. The day-to-day life of a pro isn’t much different from that of an amateur, except now I can earn prize money, which I couldn’t do at last year’s US Open. Looking at my new schedule, it’s truly incredible and very exciting.
Do you feel extra pressure now?
Honestly, no. In fact, the opposite. I’ve always performed well under media scrutiny. Playing at the US Open, with cameras at every hole, made me realize the magnitude of the moment – it really drives you to focus and stay composed.
How did you prepare for your first major tournament as a professional at the Amundi Evian Championship?
Last year at the US Open, as an amateur, was more about discovery, observing how the pros prepared. Évian is different with its live audience, which I find exhilarating and motivating. I’ve mentally prepared for this, played in England, then returned home to my comfort zone. I arrived in Évian four days early to familiarize myself with the course, which I know quite well by now.
Was this your mindset at the Jabra Ladies Open in early June?
The Jabra Ladies Open was an invaluable experience, allowing me to play the course set up for a major, from the back tees with fast and firm greens. It was just after my win in Italy, so it was quite special – I was juggling many things at once.
What are the challenges of the Champions Course?
The greens are the first challenge – they are vast, with plateaus and slopes. It’s a long course with tight tee shots. You need to miss in the right places to set up your next shot. The roughs are particularly challenging.
What’s your goal for this week?
My clear goal is to make the cut and give it my all.
You’re now working with a caddie…
It’s great having someone to assist me. My caddie is Mickaël Mahéo, who’s been with me since I was young. I think we’ll work well together.
You’ve also joined the Amundi Team, a new initiative?
It’s an honor to have been approached just two days after turning professional and to work with this group for the next two years. The girls on the team are fantastic. I know some of the international players from the Tour and get along well with Camille Chevallier, who is French.
Your thoughts on playing alongside stars like Nelly Korda, Inbee Park, or Lydia Ko?
Nelly Korda is my favorite player. Practicing next to her at the US Open was intimidating. It’s surreal to play alongside players you follow on Instagram and watch on TV – it’s an incredibly positive and enriching experience.
What does the LPGA mean to you?
I aspire to join the LPGA as soon as possible. Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of becoming the world number 1 and playing on the American circuit. I don’t plan to stay on the LET for long. The future of women’s golf is in the United States, where the best players and sponsors are. That’s my ultimate goal.”
Laurent Louët / Le Figaro Golf
