The race for the 2026 Annika Award is shaping up to be one of the closest in the award's history. With only the NCAA postseason left on the calendar, the top players in women's college golf are separated by the slimmest of margins. Just two events remain—Regionals and the NCAA Championship—giving the sport's brightest stars one last chance to build their case for national player of the year.
The Annika Award, presented by Stifel, honors the best player in women's college golf, as voted on by players, coaches, and media members. This year, the competition is as tight as ever, with several standout golfers making strong arguments. Let's break down the top contenders, what they've achieved so far, and what they need to do to take home the trophy.
Lauren O'Keefe, Texas (Junior)
O'Keefe has been the hottest player in college golf this spring, racking up three victories. In 10 stroke-play events this season, her worst finish is a T-10—and she's lost to just 31 players total across all those tournaments. If the award were handed out today, she'd likely be the frontrunner. To lock it up, she just needs to keep doing what she's doing: dominate at Regionals and the NCAA Championship.
Maria Marin, Arkansas (Junior)
The defending NCAA individual champion, Marin is currently ranked No. 2 in college golf. She has one win this season (at the Clemson Invitational) and recently claimed the Augusta National Women's Amateur title. Her consistency is remarkable—she's only finished outside the top 10 once, a T-12 at SECs. However, trailing O'Keefe by two wins (amateur victories don't count toward Annika criteria), Marin may need to win both remaining events to sway voters.
Chloe Romero, Oregon (Junior)
Romero is the world's No. 1 amateur and has played like it for most of the year. She opted out of defending her Big 10 individual title to compete in the LPGA's Chevron Championship, but she still boasts two wins this season and has finished third or better in five of her six stroke-play starts. With fewer tournaments than O'Keefe or Marin, Romero needs a strong finish to close the gap—but her talent is undeniable.