Celine Boutier Secures First Major Triumph at Evian Championship

In a stunning display of skill and composure, French golfer Celine Boutier claimed her first major title by winning the Evian Championship with an impressive six-shot lead. The 29-year-old held a three-shot advantage at the start of the final day and finished with a remarkable score of 14 under par after an almost flawless closing round of 68.

Brooke Henderson, last year's champion, secured the runner-up position at eight under after posting a 70. Boutier's victory marks a historic moment, making her the third French woman to win a major title. She joins the esteemed ranks of Catherine Lacoste, who triumphed at the 1967 US Women's Open as an amateur, and Patricia Meunier Lebouc, who claimed victory at the Kraft Nabisco Championship in California two decades ago.

Filled with joy and drenched in champagne, Boutier expressed her elation, stating, "This has long been my biggest dream. I have watched this Championship for many years and always dreamed of winning it when I was a teenager. Today is just unbelievable."

Boutier's family, including her twin sister Christie, played a significant role in supporting her during the tournament. They were present to witness her momentous achievement, providing an extra layer of significance to the win. Her exceptional performance at the Evian Championship has earned her a spot in the AIG Women's Open at Walton Heath in England in two weeks and a place in Europe's defense at the third Solheim Cup in Spain in September.

In remarkable form, Boutier started the final day with an impressive birdie at the first hole and followed it up with a fantastic two at the short second. As her challengers faltered, her lead extended to six shots by the sixth hole, cementing her position as the clear favorite. Though she faced a minor setback with a bogey at the 13th hole, Boutier quickly regained control with a birdie at the long 15th, confidently walking down the 18th hole to a well-deserved victory.

With this win, Celine Boutier adds another accolade to her already impressive LPGA Tour record, which includes three victories, including the Drive On Championship earlier this year, and participation in two Solheim Cups. Her triumph at the 2021 French Open on home soil further highlights her exceptional talent and potential as a rising star in the world of golf.