A Close-Knit Community Awaits as Local Star Céline Boutier Nears Dream First Major
Évian-les-Bains: The Charming Spa Town Buzzing with Excitement
Tucked away at the foot of the majestic Alps lies Évian-les-Bains, a picturesque town that exudes tranquility on the surface. However, beneath this serene facade, an electric buzz is pulsating through the air. If French golfer Celine Boutier realizes her dream on Sunday, this excitement will reverberate throughout the entire country.
The 29-year-old sensation has taken a significant step towards claiming her first major title after delivering yet another outstanding performance at The Evian Championship on Saturday. With a remarkable four-under par round of 67, she now holds a commanding three-shot lead heading into Sunday’s final round.
This achievement has been a long time in the making for Boutier, currently ranked as the world No.15. Despite numerous top-10 finishes in other major tournaments, her tied-29th place finish has been her best result in seven appearances at The Evian Championship – an event she yearns to conquer more than any other.
This longing for success extends far beyond Boutier herself; it resonates throughout France as well. Even when considering the tournament’s history before it became a major championship in 2013 (spanning over 19 years), no French woman has ever emerged victorious or even finished as runner-up at this prestigious event.
In spite of these overwhelming aspirations and expectations surrounding Boutier and the championship, both she and the organizers have downplayed the significance of the occasion. Admitting, that it hasn’t been easy managing her emotions in Évian, Boutier remains focused on treating this week like any other regular tournament.
When questioned about the potential impact of a French winner, Jacques Bungert, Championship Director, stated that it wouldn’t change anything for them. He emphasized that just like Roland Garros – one of France’s two major tennis Grand Slams – a victory by a Frenchwoman at The Evian Championship would be fantastic but would not fundamentally alter their approach or perspective.
Tournament President Frank Riboud further highlighted an intriguing point: what if a player from Morocco or Tunisia were to triumph at The Evian Championship? Such an outcome could potentially open up new horizons for golf in those countries and spark greater interest in the sport.
A Historic Home Victory
All week long, this quaint spa town with its population of less than 15,000 has buzzed with anticipation over the possibility of witnessing history unfold before their eyes – a historic home victory. From her first round where she shot an impressive 66 to trail by only two strokes from the lead, crowds have steadily grown larger each day as they follow every move made by Boutier.
The number of supporters swelled even more on Friday when she carded a solid 69 to claim sole possession of first place. Despite stormy weather forecasts leading to tee time adjustments on Saturday morning, rain showers couldn’t dampen spirits as fans continued rallying behind their favorite golfer.
As dark clouds rolled across Lake Geneva and gentle rain fell from above, spectators remained steadfast in their support. Shouts of “allez” accompanied every step Boutier took during her third-round charge. Four birdies before making the turn further extended her lead, with only a solitary bogey on the 12th hole marring an otherwise flawless scorecard.
“It’s been truly amazing to witness and feel the support from the fans,” Boutier expressed in gratitude when speaking to reporters. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this experience, and I’m taking it shot by shot.”