Barbados had never sent a golfer to a major championship—until Emily Odwin stepped onto the course at The Olympic Club in San Francisco. Now, SMU’s rising star is headed to the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open, rewriting both national and collegiate history with her qualifying-round triumph.
A Record-Breaking Round
Odwin secured her ticket to Erin Hills with precision and poise, carding a 3-under-par (68-71) across two rounds at one of the country’s most iconic courses. The moment wasn’t just big—it was groundbreaking. “You have not only made history but have also inspired countless aspiring golfers across Barbados and the Caribbean,” said Barbados Golf Association president David Phillips, capturing the pride of a nation.
A Mustang on the Rise
Odwin’s performance is no fluke. Since transferring to SMU from Texas, she’s quickly become a cornerstone of the Mustangs’ women’s golf program. Her sharp iron play and calm under pressure have helped power SMU into the NCAA Columbus Regional (May 5–7), where she’ll once again be counted on to deliver in high-stakes moments. Her ability to rise to the occasion is already drawing attention well beyond the Hilltop.
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Eyes on Erin Hills
The U.S. Women’s Open, slated for May 29–June 1 at Wisconsin’s Erin Hills, offers Odwin the biggest stage of her career. The venue, which last hosted a major when Brooks Koepka won the 2017 U.S. Open, is known for its demanding layout and championship-level pressure. For Odwin, it’s a chance to test her game among the world’s best and further solidify her standing as one of collegiate golf’s top prospects.
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Final Drive:
Emily Odwin’s historic U.S. Open qualification isn’t just a win for SMU—it’s a victory for the future of international golf. Mustang fans should circle the dates and cheer loud: their star is shining on a global stage.
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