ANWA 2026: The Second-Round Pressure Cooker—Who Survived—and Who Didn’t

EVANS, Ga. — Most people (a.k.a. the casual golf fan) would ask "who could be mad about playing Augusta?" But I can give you about 40 names who are pretty upset right now.

So, it begs the question...is the Friday practice round at ANGC for the Women's Amateur participants both the best and worst consolation prize in golf?

This thought was sparked during a quick chat I was having with Ben Adelberg of The Back of the Range, who is an amateur golf guru. He knows these players like the back of his hand and I believe him when he says these players are cut-throat athletes (of course they are.)

The ANWA field is the most condensed field in amateur golf, inviting only the top-72 players in the world, who are all capable of winning. They aren't here for a leisurely stroll at one of the world's most iconic courses, this is everything that they've worked toward their entire lives.

And all of that work—the blood, sweat, and tears—comes out on the Thursday before the Masters.

The heaviness of the moment is palpable, and I've never seen anything quite like it. As someone who covers the LPGA Tour week in and week out, there's always that reassurance of next time. The very next week presents another opportunity. ANWA and Q School are another level of anxiety. There's no experience quite like either of them, and it's something that only those who play can truly begin to wrap their minds around.

When I played junior golf, so much of my self-worth and confidence were attached to my results. A missed cut felt like the end of the world. Combined with teenage angst—my God, my poor parents!

That competitive drive is what makes these young women excellent. Yes, they are still amateurs, but these aren't just everyday golfers either. They are the future of our sport, and I can only begin to imagine how those who missed the cut are feeling, knowing that they were so close.

Playing Augusta is a dream come true, except the day after you just lived your nightmare.

Golf's a tricky game, man.

From our players to watch list, here's who made in for Saturday, and who will be watch behind the patron lines.

Who's In

Asterisk Talley (11-under)

She's the clubhouse leader, and honestly the player I'm expecting to lift the trophy Saturday afternoon.

Asterisk Talley of United States during the second round of the Augusta National Women's Amateur at Champions Retreat Golf Club, Thursday, April 02, 2026.(Photo by Thomas Lovelock/Augusta National/Getty Images)

The Stanford's Trio: Meja Örtengren (10-under), Andrea Revuelta (6-under), and Paula Martin Sampedro (4-under)

Not far behind Talley sits Meja Örtengren, who's just one shot back. And she isn't alone. Her teammates Andrea Revuelta and Paula Martin Sampedro will be right there with her, willing each other to the finish line.

I wouldn't be surprised if any of these three have a strong push and put some pressure on Talley.

Maria Jose Marin (10-under)

She's such a little ball of energy, I'm very obsessed with her. She'll be in the second-to-last group with Revuelta. This is a fiery duo.

Maria Jose Marin of Colombia reacts after the second round of the Augusta National Women's Amateur at Champions Retreat Golf Club, Thursday, April 02, 2026.(Photo by David Paul Morris/Augusta National/Getty Images)

Kiara Romero (4-under)

The top-ranked amateur has some work to be done to get herself into the mix, but she lives to see another day.

Farah O'Keefe (3-under)

Last year the Texas player made some magic happen in the final round, shooting a 69 after making birdies on Nos. 5, 8, 9, 13, 14 and 15.

More of this kind of electricity for Saturday, please!!!

Anna Davis (2-under)

Though the former champion probably won't be the first repeat winner, it's still cool to see her make another weekend.

Emily Odwin (2-under)

She's been the player who has truly captivated me. She didn't make it easy, but she's in for the weekend and I couldn't be more stoked. Her presence at ANGC is huge. This is the representation golf needs more of!!!

Emily Odwin of Barbados plays her tee shot on the 11th hole during the first round of the Augusta National Women's Amateur at Champions Retreat Golf Course on April 01, 2026 in Evans, Georgia. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images)

Who's Out

Rianne Malixi (E)

I wanted her to have a redemption arc after she was forced to withdraw last year, but the 19-year-old will live to another day at ANWA. Her time will come.

Megha Ganne (7-over)

This makes me a little sad, but a part of me feels like the Stanford senior is ready for her next chapter. We've all gotten to know Megha for years at this point, and I think her pro career will be fruitful.

She'll have one last dance at Augusta National, and I think she's one of the ones who is grateful to play it on Friday.

Megha Ganne of United States and her caddie on the No. 18 green during the first round of the Augusta National Women's Amateur at Champions Retreat Golf Club, Wednesday, April 01, 2026.(Photo by David Paul Morris/Augusta National/Getty Images)

What Comes Next

The ANWA format is as follows:

Two rounds at Champions Retreat, a practice round at Augusta National regardless if you make the cut, and then Saturday's final round on the sacred grounds.

The final round will be broadcasted on NBC beginning at noon Eastern.