Maya Palanza Gaudin is a name that may not be widely known yet, but it is certainly one that will gain recognition in the golfing world in the near future. This young golfer, whose parents are originally from Falmouth, MA, and currently reside in Abu Dhabi, has been making waves in the junior golf scene for the past few years. Her latest triumph came at this year’s Masters, on Sunday, when she won the United States Golf Association’s national Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. Gaudin emerged victorious in the girls’ 12-13 age division in her first appearance at this renowned event.
While her recent championship win is certainly impressive, what makes Maya’s story even more fascinating is her remarkable journey in life so far. Maya was born in southern Ethiopia, and tragically, her biological mother passed away shortly after giving birth to her. With no women in the area able to care for the newborn, her father and uncles undertook a challenging journey, walking over 50 miles to transport her safely to the nearest hospital. Her biological father then made the selfless decision to put her up for adoption, with the hope that she would have a better life in the care of someone who could provide for her.
On April 2, Maya sealed the deal in Girls 12-13 with this sidewinder. #DriveChipandPutt
??? Congratulations Maya https://t.co/Op03nMkL3f
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) April 2, 2023
Maya was subsequently adopted by Cassandra and Stephen Gaudin, with Cassandra hailing from Falmouth. The couple, who first met on a golf outing on Cape Cod, introduced Maya to the game when she was just 5-years-old. She quickly showed exceptional talent and has been playing golf at a high level for several years now. She currently holds the title of junior club champion at her home course, Yas Links, in Abu Dhabi, and she also secured a notable victory in the US Kids European Championship in Scotland last year. Her home course in the United States is Sacconnesset Golf Club in Falmouth.
In the recent Drive, Chip and Putt Championship, Maya demonstrated her skills by earning the most points in her age group, totaling 26. The competition allows for four shots in each category, with a maximum of four points awarded for each attempt. Maya’s exceptional performance in this prestigious event is a testament to her dedication and talent as a young golfer.
Looking ahead, Maya has expressed her aspirations to compete in more junior tournaments in the United States. During the summers, when she spends time on Cape Cod, she regularly participates in the New England PGA junior tournaments. She also has her sights set on qualifying for the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, showcasing her ambition and drive to excel in the sport.
When reflecting on her incredible journey in life, Maya told Golf Digest that she views the opportunities she has been given as a gift, and she intends to make the most of them. She described her recent win at Augusta National as surreal and expressed her gratitude for the experience. “It probably wasn’t supposed to happen, but it did and it’s surreal. I don’t really have any words for it…I can’t believe it. Just coming (to Augusta) was surreal, and then winning is on a whole ‘nother level,” Maya shared with Golf Digest.
Maya Palanza Gaudin’s story is one of resilience, talent, and determination. From her humble beginnings in Ethiopia to her remarkable achievements on the golf course, Maya’s journey is an inspiring example of the power of opportunity and the pursuit of excellence. As she continues to make her mark in the world of golf, Maya’s name is sure to become more widely recognized, and her future in the sport looks incredibly promising.
