Staff WriterEverything’s bigger in Texas—including the homecomings. The Aramco Houston Championship, the fourth stop on the 2025 PIF Global Series, has turned into a Lone Star reunion for three players who know these fairways, these greens, and yes, this blistering heat all too well.
Sara Kousková, Hannah Screen, and Shannon Tan all carved out chapters of their golf stories in Texas during standout collegiate careers. Now, they’re back where it began—only this time, the stage is bigger, the prize purse fatter, and the stakes a whole lot higher.
At the pre-tournament press conference, the trio traded stories about campuses, humidity, and favourite old haunts like golfers swapping tales in the clubhouse.
Hannah Screen: “It’s nice to return”
“It’s really cool to be back in Houston. I went to the University of Houston for just over a year, and I actually haven’t been back since, so it’s nice to return,” said Hannah Screen, who these days sits 32nd on the LET Order of Merit. “You think you’re prepared for the heat, but it’s definitely hit me this week. I’ve also had the chance to catch up with some friends, which has been great.”
Screen never teed it up at Golfcrest during her Cougar days, but she knows Houston grass like the back of her hand. “Quite comfortable,” she said of the course. “For European players, the grain when chipping can sometimes be tricky, but it’s just about practice. I spent time on the chipping green today and got the feel back quickly.”
Her 2025 season has been a steady climb. “For me it’s about consistency. The weeks where I’ve played my best have been when I trusted my game and leaned into who I am as a golfer, instead of overthinking.”
Sara Kousková: Proud Longhorn
The Czech star has two wins this season and currently sits second on the LET Order of Merit. She wasted no time heading back to campus.
“I’m definitely proud to be a Longhorn. I actually went back to campus over the weekend, visited our facilities, and saw some of my former teammates. It brought back so many great memories,” Kousková said.
“As Hannah said, it’s very hot — especially in August — but it’s been fun revisiting old favourites, including the food I loved during my four years here.”
On her standout season, she remained grounded. “Honestly, my expectations haven’t really changed — I’ve always worked hard towards getting that first win on the LET, and to have done it twice this season is really special. But my focus remains the same: play good golf, make smart decisions, and enjoy the process of life on Tour.”
Her secret weapon this week? Team spirit. “I always enjoy the team element of these events, and I hope we can create another great atmosphere together. Here, it feels like it’s going to come down to putting and keeping the ball in the right spots.”
Shannon Tan: “Texas still feels a little like home”
Shannon Tan, third on the Order of Merit with two wins, has a soft spot for Texas.
“I spent four and a half years at Texas Tech, so it’s always nice to be back. I was here as recently as last November, and I might head back to visit again after this event. Texas still feels a little like home.”
Her short game has turned into a tour weapon. “Last year I was only getting up and down about 35% of the time, and this year I’ve improved that to around 45%,” she said. “I’ve also worked hard on my putting from five to fifteen feet, and focusing on those small targets has translated into better results overall.”
As for Houston’s sauna-like conditions? No problem. “Honestly, it feels a bit cooler here than at home!” she laughed. “In Singapore, I can barely practice for more than an hour before needing a break, so this feels manageable. It might even give me an advantage, since I’m used to the humidity and heat.”
Big purses, bigger pressure
With the Aramco Team Series offering some of the richest prize funds in women’s golf, there’s no hiding the motivation.
“It’s great to see this level of support for women’s golf. The prize funds are a big draw, and I plan my schedule to focus on these events,” said Tan.
“The global element is huge — bringing the LET to the U.S. is another great step,” added Kousková.
“For me it’s about treating every week the same and not putting too much pressure on myself,” said Screen. “The team element also makes these weeks fun and relaxed, which I think helps performance.”
Tickets and details
Fans can catch the action up close at Golfcrest Country Club. Tickets are priced at $15 for Friday, $20 for Saturday and Sunday, or $50 for a full weekend pass.
For more details on the PIF Global Series and the Aramco Houston Championship, visit www.pifglobalseries.com.
