January 23, 2025 | Miami, FL, Theme of “Emergence” Continues as Former Rutgers Standout Joins Esteemed Roster of Rising Stars.
Despite near-freezing temperatures and intermittent rainfall, Leigha Devine (Colorado, USA) delivered a commanding performance at the NXXT Sir Winston Cup to secure her maiden professional victory. Devine’s three-round total of -11 (67 • 67 • 65) outpaced a formidable field—ultimately winning by seven strokes over co-runners-up Annabelle Pancake and Melanie Green at -4.
This triumphant showing marks the sixth first-time pro winner of the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour Winter Series, underscoring the Tour’s theme of the “Emergence of the Next Star of Women’s Golf.” Devine follows in the footsteps of prior NXXT champions: Annabelle Pancake (2 wins), Laney Frey, Alice Hodge, Megan Schofill, and Lauren Miller—all of whom claimed their first professional titles during this sensational winter stretch.
Leigha Devine on her breakthrough, “The cold, the wind chill, and the rain truly tested all of us. I just tried to stay composed, focus on each shot, and remember why I love this game. To become part of the NXXT Tour’s growing list of first-time winners is beyond exciting. It’s a privilege to compete against such talented players and, hopefully, this is just the beginning.”
A Resilient Field and a Compelling Finish
After weather threatened to derail low scores, Devine’s final-round 5-under 65 proved a masterclass in strategic play and unflappable resolve. Meanwhile, Annabelle Pancake (Lebanon, IN) and Melanie Green (Medina, NY) both carded three-day totals of -4 (206), tying for second place. Rounding out the top five were Jackie Lucena (4th at -2) and Mohan Du (5th at -1).
CEO’s Take: “A New Wave of Stars”
NXXT Golf CEO Stuart McKinnon praised Devine’s breakthrough, noting how she perfectly embodies the Winter Series’ central storyline.
“This winter, we’ve witnessed a staggering six new names etch their first professional title into the NXXT record books. Each winner brings a unique flair and passion, and Leigha’s performance further cements our theme of ‘emergence.’ Women’s golf is on the cusp of an exciting new wave, and our Winter Series is rapidly becoming the stage where future LPGA standouts make their mark.”
Road to the LPGA Player of the Year & Upcoming Epson Tour Exemptions
With five events remaining on the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour schedule before the season-ending National Championship at Club Adean, the stakes continue to rise. Every upcoming tournament doubles as an Epson Tour qualifier, offering crucial exemptions for players striving to advance their professional careers.
Additionally, points towards the Drive to the LPGA Player of the Year remain up for grabs—where the Top 3 finishers at season’s end will have their LPGA Stage I Q-School fees covered by NXXT Golf.
“The competition is fierce, and it’s only going to escalate from here,” McKinnon added. “Each event provides invaluable experience and the chance to secure a swift pathway to the Epson Tour. That’s what makes our Winter Series so special—it’s an opportunity-laden platform for these budding stars to flourish.”
About the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour
The NXXT Women’s Pro Tour is at the forefront of advancing women’s golf by delivering substantial purses, pivotal Tour exemptions, and top-tier competitive environments. Aligned with the LPGA and Epson Tour, NXXT exists to empower emerging talents—providing the support, exposure, and high-level pressure testing that accelerates a player’s journey toward the game’s grandest stages.
For additional details on upcoming events, player profiles, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.nxxtwomensprotour.com. Watch her interview as the new champion here. Stuart McKinnon
CEO, NXXT Golf & NXXT Golf Foundation
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