Alejandra Llaneza

Hometown:

Age:

Mexico City, Mexico

Competed in the 2016 Olympics, Member of the LPGA for 4 years, 2 Epson Tour Wins, 6 professional wins.

Career Highlights and Goals

At age 11 I won a playoff to win my first National Junior Tournament in Mexico. I knew then that golf was what I wanted to do for a looong time. I love the adrenaline of competing and how it makes you face your biggest internal battles. My proudest moment has been representing Mexico in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

It was a very cool moment because I did gymnastics growing up as well and my biggest dream was to go to the Olympics.

However, golf was not in the competition then but I loved the sport, so when I found out it was back in, I felt extremely excited. Winning my first Epson event in 2015 paved the way for me to be ranked high enough to let Mexico qualify and getting my LPGA card later that year secured my spot.

I faced the biggest challenge about 2 years ago when I faced burnout and some health issues. But I am back feeling better and ready to fully get back into competition.

I would like to inspire others who want to go after their dreams and knowing it is never too late and you are never 'too old' after all, a big reason I chose golf was because you can play it until you are 90 or 100!

My goal next year is to win more tournaments, play on the NXXT and European Tour!

Life Beyond Golf

I love the outdoors, hiking, kayaking, astrology and spirituality. I think my challenge was that I was too focused on golf only so now I am learning to have more balance, not play a tournament every single week and listen to myself when I feel like I need some time to get my mind off of golf.

On the NXXT Tour

I have only played one event and I was impressed by the organization and welcoming energy from all the tour staff. It can be a lonely sport, so feeling like the tour where you play is cheering for you is a great feeling. I would advise young players to not feel so rushed and not take results personally. Analyze your game more objectively and do not tie your self esteem to your results.

I have been there and it was not fun. Now that I have a strong team around me I feel much better and less lonely. No matter what you're going thru, you are not alone. In my case it helped me to work with a psychologist where we work on all aspects of myself, not just golf. So build a strong team of family friends and coaches around you and lean on them.

A Journey into Golf

I started playing at the age of 6 in Mexico City with my dad. He would take my sister and I on weekends and I fell in love with the game right away.

At 8 I entered my first tournament and I just loved the competition and friendships I could make on the course. My biggest two inspirations were Tiger Woods and Lorena Ochoa.

I loved Tiger's laser focus and athleticism and I loved Lorena's determination and the way she handles herself on and off the course.

When I was 16 she invited me to practice with her for a week and it was amazing to see how the #1 player in the world practiced during the off season!

Favorite Golfer:

Lorena Ochoa

Pre-Round Ritual:

Morning meditation, 45 minute warm up including range and putting. Getting my tempo for the day.

Favorite Course:

Home course, Club de Golf Mexico

Dream Golf Partners:

Dad, Lorena Ochoa, Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, Jack Nickalus (yes, 5 somes are allowed haha)

Message to Fans

Thanks for following and supporting the tour! golf always gives us an opportunity to be the best version of ourselves.