3 Key Points
- Gaby Lopez returns to LPGA play with strong opening at Lake Nona.
- Off-season honeymoon adventure spans multiple continents and experiences.
- Technique adjustment and patience in putting key to recent success.
A Refreshed Start for Gaby Lopez
Mexican professional golfer Gaby Lopez has resumed her LPGA Tour post a remarkable off-season break, which bridged her love for travel and commitment to the game. Some may know Lopez as a three-time LPGA champion, others now as a newlywed, but she’s returned with zeal to start the golfing year strong.
The Wedding and the World Tour
Tying the knot to Santiago Carranza on December 16, Lopez took to an extraordinary honeymoon that saw her traverse vistas in Africa and Spain. “It was a dream come true,” she revealed, displaying an eagerness to share the highlights of her expedition on social media. This break from golf, filled with safaris and cultural treats, was more than a leisurely getaway; it served as a mental reset, according to Lopez.
Back to Competitive Form
Lopez is no stranger to competing at high levels, and she finds herself back in the fray at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. Her opening round concluded with an impressive 5-under 67, placing her within striking distance of the leader. Despite a drought of wins in ’23, her performance at the Dana Open the previous year secured her spot in this event.
Striking a Balance
Analyzing her game’s trajectory, Lopez acknowledged the necessity of adapting her style mid-season, reverting to a more instinctual approach with her former coach Horacio Morales. It paid off as her greens-in-regulation stats soared, underlining the importance of a balanced tactical evolution in her game.
Day One Highlights
Day one was more than just tallying a score for Lopez; it was about execution. With a near-perfect greens-in-regulation performance and a birdie-heavy card, she’s laid down a significant marker for the tournament. This, combined with her interactions with famous personalities like Michael Waltrip, has set the tone for a season that blends competitiveness with enjoyment.
Celebrity Flair in the Competition
Lopez wasn’t the only notable name lighting up the scoreboard. Golfing great Annika Sorenstam led the celebrity contingent in the special Modified Stableford format, while New York Mets’ Jeff McNeil also showcased impressive skills. For Lopez, these moments shared between sports icons accentuate the uniqueness of the tournament and its role as an enjoyable curtain-raiser for her competitive calendar.
