Teen Golfer Ojaswini Saraswat Makes History at Women's Indian Open

Thirteen-year-old amateur golfer Ojaswini Saraswat has become the youngest player to make the cut at the Hero Women's Indian Open. She achieved the milestone on Friday at the DLF Golf & Country Club in Gurgaon, marking her first appearance in a professional event. She is also the second-youngest player to make a cut in any Ladies European Tour event, following Thailand's Ariya Jutanugarn. The previous Indian Open record was held by Aditi Ashok, who was 14 years old in 2012. Saraswat secured her spot after entering the top four of the Women's Golf Association of India amateur rankings on September 29. Her tournament started with a tough opening round score of seven-over 79 due to nervousness from playing alongside her idols. Following advice from her father Om and mentor Harmeet Kahlon, she bounced back with a three-under 69 in the second round, finishing with three consecutive birdies to tie for 26th place. Her father built her custom clubs by cutting down equipment meant for older children after she took up the sport at age four in Mohali. Her training involves online coaching sessions from the United States and Thailand, supported by sponsors like Callaway and Roundglass. She has not attended school for three years due to her tournament schedule, relying on home tuitions while maintaining high academic scores.

Context

Making the cut at a professional tour event as a teenager highlights the rapid growth of young talent in Indian golf. The sport demands early specialization and significant financial investment in coaching and equipment from families. Saraswat now aims for a top-ten finish in the remaining weekend rounds of the tournament.