“These ladies can really play!” Those words from golf legend Gary Player perfectly encapsulate the momentous occasion that unfolded at the 2025 Augusta National Women’s Amateur. On the prestigious grounds of Augusta National Golf Club, one young golfer proved just how much talent women’s golf has to offer. In the final round, scoring a 4-under 68, she claimed victory, finishing one shot ahead of 16-year-old Asterisk Talley—a performance that left fans and legends in awe.

The young Spaniard’s stunning win didn’t go unnoticed by Player, who took to Instagram to congratulate her. “Many congratulations to Carla Bernat Escuder on her life-changing win at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur,” he wrote. “A tremendous round on Sunday and she showed true poise on 18 to see the final putt drop for an impressive 68. No shot at this venue comes easy, unrelenting and constant pressure.”

But Player’s praise didn’t stop at Escuder’s win; he called for continued support for the women’s game, emphasizing the need to back rising talents like Carla Bernat Escuder as the sport grows. “As the women’s game continues to grow and build momentum, the entire industry must continue to support,” he urged. Escuder’s victory is proof that the future of golf is bright, especially with athletes like her leading the way.

Golf.com also joined in the celebration, sharing an image of Escuder alongside fellow Spanish golf pros Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia. The post read: “These Spaniards know their way around Augusta National Golf Club,” a nod to the golfing heritage Escuder is now part of.

Escuder’s win at Augusta National is more than just a personal achievement—it marks a new chapter in women’s golf. With an impressive track record that includes winning the Spanish International Ladies Amateur in 2021, becoming the AAC Golfer of the Year in 2023, and earning All-America honors at Kansas State, this victory is another milestone in her rapidly rising career. Her performance at Augusta, along with her history of top finishes in major amateur and college tournaments, has firmly established her as a force to be reckoned with. As she continues to break barriers and shatter expectations, it’s clear that she’s not just a name to watch—she’s a name that will be remembered. But the win for Carla Bernat Escuder herself was more than just making a statement, it holds a personal achievement.

Carla Bernat Escuder’s win is a tribute to her mentor

Escuder’s victory at Augusta National was an immensely emotional moment for those who have supported her along the way. Among the most important people in her journey were Carol and Dave Cox, her close friends and surrogate grandparents. Carol, watching from the rope line, couldn’t help but shed tears as Escuder claimed her victory. “He was always in her corner,” Carol reflected on her late husband, Dave, who had been a constant source of encouragement. Escuder, too, felt the weight of their loss. “He had nothing to win by sending me messages and helping me become a better player mentally. I was thinking a lot about him today,” she said, acknowledging the profound impact Dave had on her mental game and growth as a player.

As Escuder stood on the 18th green, preparing to sink her final putt, she was carrying not just the hopes of her team and fans, but the memory of a man who had cheered her on through every challenge. For Carol Cox, watching Bernat claim the coveted sterling silver bowl brought tears to her eyes. “He was so proud of her,” Carol shared. “She was like a granddaughter to us. Dave would have been over the moon.”

Kansas State head coach Stew Burke, who was also in Bernat’s gallery, wore a pin on the back of his trucker hat that read, “For Dave,” with images of a lemon, orange, and grapefruit, a symbolic tribute to the man who grew fruit trees in his backyard. Bernat, too, keeps a similar pin on her college bag as a reminder of Cox’s enduring influence.

Bernat’s triumph was not only a personal one but a heartfelt tribute to the man who had supported her unconditionally, further solidifying the importance of mentorship and legacy in the world of sports.