“Both the women’s and men’s fields look really good, and for me it is going to be great fun going head-to-head with Ash after her success in this event and all the Aussie girls, especially Hannah who has had such a great year on the LPGA,” Lee said.
 
“Although it has been a long year playing all over the world, I’m very much looking forward to finishing my run of tournaments at the Australian Open that is always one of the most special events of the year.”
 
Runner-up to Buhai last year in Sydney, which is one of four top-five finishes she has achieved in the past six Australian Opens, Lee has been a consistent contender at her national Open without yet claiming the Patricia Bridges Bowl, a trophy she is determined to add to the family’s trophy case.
 
“Winning an Australian Open title would mean so much to me, and breaking the Aussie drought would make it extra special, especially after my close call last year in Sydney,” she said. “That event was huge, and I’d love to see crowds like that again in Melbourne.”
 
Fifth in 2022 when playing the same host venues, and alongside the men and Australian All Abilities Championship for the first time, Lee is the latest player to speak glowingly of playing the Australian Open on some of the world’s best courses in the Melbourne Sandbelt.
 
“The Melbourne Sandbelt has so many amazing courses, and playing such a big tournament at Kingston Heath and Victoria in front of the incredible home fans will be a very enjoyable way to end the year,” she said.