Duke’s Rianne Malixi Named 2025 – 2026 WGCA Freshman of the Year

Duke freshman Rianne Malixi was named the 2025 to 2026 Division I WGCA Freshman of the Year Presented by StrackaLine following a standout debut season for the Blue Devils.

The award is presented annually to the top freshman in Division I women’s golf and requires a minimum of 15 competitive rounds for eligibility.

Malixi, a native of Manila, Philippines, recorded one victory during the season at the Sea Best Intercollegiate and added five top three finishes. Her season included a runner up finish at the 2026 ACC Women’s Golf Championship and a third place finish at the NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship stroke play competition.

She finished the year with a 69.4 adjusted scoring average and was also named the 2026 ACC Freshman of the Year.

Malixi is scheduled to represent the International Team at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Cup in West Barrow, Ireland later this summer.

The Women’s Golf Coaches Association was founded in 1983 and represents women’s collegiate golf coaches across the United States.

Sources:
WGCA Freshman of the Year Release
Women’s Golf Coaches Association