The recent wins are as inspiring as the journey that Lilia Vu has to undertake to defend her AIG Women’s Open title. Just days before the last big tournament of the year, Vu discussed her mental health issues and the influence of her grandfather who passed away back in 2020. He was her rock that helped her fight off the feelings of burnout and self-doubt when she was on the verge of another major championship.

Nevertheless, Vu’s journey was not without some challenges. After winning her first major at the Chevron Championship, she underwent a period of poor performance including missing cuts and a back problem. “I felt burnt out and struggled with imposter syndrome,” Vu admitted. Her grandfather died when she was in one of the worst states of her life. “He’s always on the golf course with me,” she said, comforted by the fact that he had been a source of constant support to her.

The tweet leading up to her title defense captured the gravity of the moment. “The final major of the year is here. @TheLiliaVu is ready to defend her title at the AIG Women’s Open 🏆 Presented by Rolex.” In an interview shared on the same post by X, Vu revealed that she has been through a lot of hardship and that her grandfather inspired her to return. Her thoughts described an athlete who was struggling with both, personal and career issues, but still had her family’s background to rely on.

Vu’s experiences with her grandfather imbibed a sense of resilience in the golfer and motivated her to make comebacks. This is the story of Vu, a man who escaped from Vietnam in 1982 through a dangerous journey in search of a better life and such a background gave Vu a strong outlook in life. “Even when I get in my own ways, I think, ‘Oh Grandpa would be upset if you’re acting that way,’” Vu said.

It was a constant reminder of what was at stake and the price that had been paid for her chances, and so she had to struggle. In the interview that witnessed an emotional side of the LPGA Tour Pro, she candidly confessed how being in her shoes would be a dream for many individuals and thus, it was not something that could be taken lightly. The recent accomplishments of the golfer vouch for this mindset of hers.

Recent achievements of Lilia Vu’s remarkable seasons

The 2023 season of Lilia Vu was full of extraordinary successes, despite the mentioned difficulties. Her 2023 AIG Women’s Open victory carded a remarkable five-under 67 to win by six shots, securing her second major of the year. One of her breakthrough moments was the win at the 2023 Chevron Championship, which put her on the map as a promising player.

This was succeeded by a brilliant victory at the 2023 Women’s British Open, in which she led the field by six shots. These victories placed her at the pinnacle of the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings, proving her tenacity and prowess. That was not the end of Vu’s accomplishments. Following a back injury in early 2024, she emerged victorious at the Meijer LPGA Classic to show that she was not through with winning.

Her selection to the United States team to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics was another sign of her talent and hard work. Lilia Vu’s narrative is a blend of a woman’s battle, her family’s tradition, and her career. How do you feel about Lilia Vu and her recent accomplishments? In what ways do you motivate yourself during your own difficulties? Share your comments below.