For the non-golfer, who are you and what do you do?
My name is Pasqualle Coffa (27), and I transitioned from an amateur to a professional golfer five years ago. Hailing from Heusden, I travel the world to pursue my passion for golf. Equestrianism used to be my great love, but I started golfing at the age of 16.
From the age of 5 to 16, you were always into horse riding. What triggered you to start golfing?
After a heart attack, my father, an air traffic controller, chose golf for relaxation. During a vacation in Portugal, we played together on the golf course and had a lot of fun during our matches. Coach Pedro, with whom I had morning lessons, noticed my talent. That marked the beginning of my golfing adventure.
What advice do you have for the beginner golfer?
Enjoyment is paramount. Play as much as possible with others, share tips, and collaborate to improve. I always gain energy when I can give someone a tip, and vice versa – that's how you make each other better. Invest time if you truly want to make progress.
“It was quite thrilling as I was ranked 49th, and I had to play a good tournament to earn the points and secure full status.”
What are you most proud of in your golf career?
The moment I achieved full status on the Ladies European Tour (LET). I secured my best ranking, finishing 12th in Finland, which earned me enough points to qualify.
You've recently faced some setbacks. How do you deal with them?
That's correct; this year was a tough and disappointing season. Setbacks are inherent in golf when you're competing against 150 or more players. The chance of winning every week is very small. When the level isn't sufficient, you need to take a step back. This realization is mentally challenging, but talking to fellow players and coaches helps me. I accept where I am now, work hard, and keep going with a mindset of continuous improvement.
Can you describe what your week looks like?
I like working with a weekly schedule that I put together on Sundays. From my to-do list, I create a plan so that I can improve a little bit every day and not lose myself in a specific aspect I want to enhance. The days often end with physical training in the gym. One day, I focus on strength and speed, and another day on mobility and stability. I train six days a week, spending between 4 and 8 hours each day. As I approach tournaments, I spend more time on the course to get myself in the right playing mode.
Before starting a tournament, do you have a specific ritual or preparation that you always do?
I start the day with meditation and always follow my standard warm-up before starting a tournament.
“The Solheim Cup is so much more than a regular tournament. It will mean a lot for women's golf in the Netherlands.”
The Solheim Cup is coming to Bernardus in 2026. What does such a tournament mean to you?
It is the ultimate goal to participate in the Solheim Cup. It's nice that there is still some time; very good play is needed to qualify for this tournament. I will do everything in my power to peak at the right moment and have a chance to make this dream come true. The Solheim Cup is so much more than a regular tournament. It will mean a lot for women's golf in the Netherlands.
How do you think golf is perceived as a sport in the Netherlands?
When I was in high school, it was often seen as boring, and my classmates didn't understand it. People viewed it as a sport for the elderly and the elite. But thankfully, I notice that golf is slowly gaining more attention, especially among young people.
What is your ultimate dream that you still want to achieve in top sports?
My current dream is to return to the LET, with the ultimate goal of playing and, of course, winning a Major tournament.
Who is a role model for you in the golf sport?
Rory McIlroy is my golf hero. His authenticity, confidence, and ultimate swing inspire me. He is always working to improve his own game and gladly shares his passion with others.