Singaporean golfer Shannon Tan delivered a standout performance at the Women’s British Open, held at Royal Lytham & St Annes in England, finishing tied for sixth place on August 2. At just 22 years old, Tan’s showing marked a new high in her progression at major championships, signaling her growing presence on the international golf stage.

Tan carded a two-under-par 69 in the final round, matching her best score of the tournament. Her round was notable for its composure and precision, including a clutch nine-iron approach from 120 meters on the 18th hole that stopped within three feet of the pin, setting up a birdie finish. Only one player, Nelly Korda, outperformed her score among the day’s contenders.

This result represents a significant step forward for Tan, who prior to this event had missed the cut at the 2024 Women’s British Open and finished progressively better in subsequent major appearances, with placements of tied-60th, tied-59th, tied-40th, tied-38th, tied-32nd, and tied-16th. Her performance this week underscores a trajectory of steady improvement and growing confidence on some of golf’s most challenging stages.

Tan is no stranger to breaking new ground for Singaporean golf. She is the first Singaporean woman to compete in golf at the Olympic Games and the first from her country to join the Ladies European Tour. She also became the first Singaporean to win a Ladies European Tour event and to top its Order of Merit, as well as the first to surpass one million euros in career earnings on the tour. Her accomplishments have helped raise the profile of Singaporean golf internationally and inspired greater attention to the sport within the country.

Despite her success this week, Tan remains focused on refining her game. She acknowledged difficulties with her putting throughout the tournament, noting that she “hit a four-putt today” and that many putts “just didn’t drop” during earlier rounds. Her father, Desmond Tan, echoed this view, noting that putting has “been really punishing her” and pointing out that she is continuously working to master the subtle aspects of her game.

Tan’s preparation for the tournament included a detailed study of the course conditions at Royal Lytham, particularly its distinctive pot bunkers, firmer and faster playing surfaces, and the challenges posed by wind. This preparation helped her adapt to conditions requiring different shot-making and strategic course management.

Reflecting on her week, Tan told her father, “Honestly I could have won this week,” a candid expression of her ambition and belief in her abilities despite the presence of a field with 33 major winners. Her readiness to compete at the highest level reveals a mindset focused not just on participation, but on contending for titles.

Her performance drew praise from fellow Singaporean professional golfer Lam Chih Bing, who described her result as “impressive.” As Tan continues to develop her game, her trajectory suggests she could become a consistent contender in majors and further elevate Singapore’s standing in the global golf community.