Polini Langi, Director of Finance at the Ladies European Tour (LET), reflects on her first six months with the organisation and her vision for women’s professional golf. From her debut tournament experience at Aramco Team Series – London, to her pivotal role within the LET, Polini brings a wealth of experience and a profound passion for sport and growth.
Welcome to the last part of our 12-part series Inside the LET. Each month we’ve been hearing from someone within the Ladies European Tour, to gain a better insight into the tour, the large number of stakeholders and partners involved and what it really takes to run a global professional women’s golf tour.
Polini Langi, the Director of Finance at the Ladies European Tour (LET), reflects on her first six months with the organisation and her vision for women’s professional golf. From her debut tournament experience at Aramco Team Series – London, to her pivotal role within the LET, Polini brings a wealth of experience and a profound passion for sport and growth.
A warm welcome at the LET
Now six months into her role, Polini has just returned from her first trip overseas with the LET attending the season-ending Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España presented by Oysho. She describes her trip to Spain as an exhilarating experience. “It was really busy, but I absolutely loved it,” she says. “There was such a positive buzz about it, and I was smiling like an idiot the whole time.”
Since starting in June, her time at LET has been equally welcoming. “Everyone has been so welcoming – it’s like one big family. The culture here is phenomenal, and I feel blessed to be a part of it.”
A career rooted in sports
Born and raised in Queanbeyan, New South Wales, Australia, and of proud Tongan heritage, Polini’s passion for sports shaped her career trajectory. A basketball scholarship led her to gain work experience at the ACT Academy of Sport, Australian Institute of Sport and various government sports organisations. “I fell in love with the industry, getting insights into what goes on behind the scenes,” she recalls.
After moving to the UK 20 years ago, she transitioned into the private sector, working in sports data, marketing, and technology, ultimately specialising in finance. “I surprised myself by loving finance. It’s not just numbers – it’s about communication and collaboration across the business,” she explains.
The role of Director of Finance
Since taking on the role of Director of Finance at the LET, Polini has embraced her responsibilities, which include budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting. She also oversees a growing finance team and contributes to the organisation’s strategic goals.
Despite the challenges of diving straight into an audit and accelerated budgeting processes, Polini has relished the opportunity. “It’s been a steep learning curve, but it’s also been rewarding. Building trust with my team and collaborating with colleagues has been key,” she says.
Being part of the LET has been nothing short of inspiring. “It sounds corny, but I just love my job and being part of it. My first event was the Centurion ATS London, and witnessing elite women at the top of their game competing in front of passionate crowds was unforgettable. What stood out even more was the incredible teamwork behind the scenes – the staff working seamlessly to bring it all together. Seeing that level of dedication and collaboration validated everything for me and made me even more excited to be part of this journey.”
Getting into golf
Basketball, netball, and rugby union were Polini’s main sports growing up. It wasn’t until a visit back home to see her family that golf even crossed her mind. “My sisters, all competitive athletes, suggested we try the driving range. I had never touched a club before – and it showed! I was absolutely terrible. That said, my competitive streak kicked in, and I started taking lessons just to beat my sisters!
“My husband also plays golf, and I once caddied for him at Porto Santo. While I was there, I noticed a group of women playing a match. They were outdoors, having fun, sharing drinks, and just enjoying each other’s company. I thought, This is something I’d love to be part of.”
Resonating with the mission of the LET
Golf really clicked for Polini when she discovered the work being done by organisations like the LET. “Their mission to grow and promote the game resonated with me deeply. As someone who has always had a passion for sport, I was inspired to contribute to their journey.
“During my research, I learned about the LET’s founders and the challenges they faced. Their resilience and determination were inspiring, and I knew I wanted to support their mission. If I could play even a small role in growing the game of golf, I was all in.”
Polini is also driven by LET’s mission to close the gap between men’s and women’s golf. “I’m so excited about the future,” she says. “Seeing the prize fund grow and having leaders like Theresa McCann [the LET’s new Commercial Director] driving partnerships and innovation gives me immense hope.”
She also acknowledges the unique challenges female golfers face, from public perceptions of golf as a “middle-aged white men’s sport” to competing with other sports for recognition. However, Polini remains optimistic. “The LET’s commitment to its players, from helping with financial planning to enhancing fan engagement, shows we’re on the right path.”
Looking ahead
Having spent much of her life around elite athletes in team sports like netball and basketball, where she has seen women represent England at the highest level, the dynamic of golf has been fascinating to observe. “Golf is so different; it’s such an individual sport compared to the team environments I’m used to. In team sports, players can rely on teammates to lift them during a lull, but in golf, it’s a solitary battle. While players have their caddies, fans, and support networks like coaches and family, ultimately, it’s just them, the ball, and the club. Witnessing the dedication and self-reliance of these women as they compete at the pinnacle of their sport has been eye-opening and a stark contrast to the collective efforts I’ve experienced in other sports.”
Reflecting on her role and the LET’s future, Polini exudes enthusiasm. “The progress we’re making is inspiring. Women’s golf is growing, and I’m proud to play a part in shaping its future.”
With her diverse background and passion for empowering athletes, Polini exemplifies the LET’s commitment to growth and excellence. There’s no doubt there’s a bright future ahead for Polini and the LET stars.
