Top 10 Best Female Golfers of All Time
S.No |
Best Female Golfers of All Time |
Period |
|
1 |
Kathy Whitworth |
1960s – ’70s |
|
2 |
Mickey Wright |
1950s – ’60s |
|
3 |
Annika Charlotta Sörenstam |
1990s – 2000s |
|
4 |
Inbee Park |
2010s – present |
|
5 |
Patty Berg |
1930s – ’50s |
|
6 |
Mae Louise Suggs |
1940s – ’60s |
|
7 |
Nancy Lopez |
1970s – ’80s |
|
8 |
Babe Zaharias |
1940s – ’50s |
|
9 |
Karrie Webb |
1990s – 2000s |
|
10 |
Dame Laura Davies |
1980s – 2010s |
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Best Female Golfers of All Time
Breaking barriers and redefining the landscape of a traditionally male-dominated sport, female golfers have left an indelible mark on the world of golf. This compilation honors the legacy of the 10 Best Female Golfers of All Time, showcasing their extraordinary talent, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements. From trailblazers who paved the way for women in golf to modern-day champions who continue to push boundaries, each golfer has contributed to the rich tapestry of the sport’s history. Join us in celebrating these iconic athletes who have not only mastered the fairways but have also become legends in their own right.
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1. Kathy Whitworth
Kathrynne Ann Whitworth, known as Kathy Whitworth, stands as an iconic figure in the annals of women’s golf, leaving an indelible mark on the sport during the 1960s and ’70s. Beginning her athletic journey in tennis, Whitworth transitioned to golf at the age of 14, a decision that would shape her remarkable career. With 88 victories on the LPGA Tour, Whitworth’s impact on the golfing world is unparalleled. She clinched six Major titles, showcasing her exceptional skill on the sport’s grandest stages.
Her reign as one of the sport’s greatest was complemented by her selection as the inaugural American captain for the Solheim Cup in 1990, adding another layer to her illustrious career. Whitworth’s influence extends beyond her playing days, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the pioneering figures who helped establish women’s golf on the global stage.
2. Mickey Wright
Mary Kathryn “Mickey” Wright, an iconic name in women’s golf, ascended to greatness during the 1950s and ’60s, etching her name into the history books with an impressive 82 victories on the LPGA Tour. Wright’s journey in golf began with a significant triumph at the 1952 US Girls’ Junior Championship. Swiftly transitioning to the professional circuit in 1955, she secured an astounding 13 major championships during her career, including an impressive streak of three consecutive major victories in the 1961 season.
Her swing drew praise from the legendary Ben Hogan, who deemed it the best he had ever seen. A member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, Mickey Wright’s contributions to women’s golf extended beyond her playing days, serving as an inspiration for generations of female golfers who followed in her footsteps.
3. Annika Charlotta Sörenstam
Annika Sörenstam, often hailed as one of the greatest female golfers in history, emerged as a trailblazer in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Hailing from Sweden, Sörenstam became the first European woman to dominate professional women’s golf, accumulating over 90 international victories, including an impressive 72 official LPGA tournaments and 10 major championships. In 2003, she achieved a remarkable career Grand Slam, conquering each of the four major championships during her prime, solidifying her status as one of the most accomplished golfers of her era. Sörenstam’s remarkable feat of teeing off in a men’s PGA Tour event, a feat not accomplished since Babe Zaharias, showcased her determination to push boundaries and challenge gender norms in the sport.
Even after her retirement, Annika Sörenstam’s influence endured. In 2021, she made a surprising return to competitive golf, joining and winning the US Senior Women’s Open, showcasing her enduring skill and passion for the game. Her impact on women’s golf extends beyond her victories, as she continues to inspire the next generation of female golfers to dream big and reach for new heights.
4. Inbee Park
Inbee Park, the South Korean golf sensation, has left an indelible mark on the world of golf with her exceptional skill and numerous accomplishments. Capturing hearts worldwide, Park secured the number one rank in the Women’s World Golf Rankings four times, showcasing her dominance in the sport. Her legacy sparkles with an impressive collection of seven major championships throughout her career, including a remarkable feat in 2013 when she secured three consecutive major victories, becoming only the fourth LPGA Tour player to achieve such a milestone in a single calendar year. Park’s finesse on the course earned her the distinction of being the youngest winner of the US Women’s Open and the second player to triumph in the Women’s PGA Championship three years consecutively.
Beyond her individual achievements, Inbee Park has been a crucial member of South Korea’s success in team competitions, contributing to multiple victories in the International Crown and leading her country to gold in the 2016 Olympics. Her remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure have solidified her status as one of the modern era’s greatest female golfers.
5. Patty Berg
Patty Berg stands as a celebrated American golf sensation with an enduring legacy that spans several decades. Recognized as the founding figure and inaugural president of the LPGA, Berg’s impact on the world of golf is immeasurable. Her journey began with a triumphant entry into competitive amateur golf, marked by early victories like the Minneapolis City Championship. Despite facing a challenging car accident, Berg showcased her strength by returning to win the Women’s Western Open, laying the foundation for her continued success.
Berg’s professional career saw her accumulate an impressive 63 professional tour victories, including 15 major championships, a record for the most major wins by a female golfer. Notably, she was the leading figure in the establishment of the LPGA, contributing to the growth and recognition of women’s golf on a global scale. Patty Berg’s enduring legacy as a pioneer, champion, and advocate for women in golf cements her as one of the true legends in the history of the sport.
6. Mae Louise Suggs
Mae Louise Suggs, affectionately known as “Little Mo,” stands as a pivotal figure in the history of women’s golf. Co-founding the LPGA in 1950, Suggs began her remarkable golf journey by winning the Georgia State Amateur title at the age of 16 in 1940. This victory foreshadowed her prolific career, which would span nearly three decades. Suggs showcased her early talent by claiming victories at prestigious championships like the Southern Amateur Championship and North and South Women’s Amateur. Notably, she achieved back-to-back triumphs in the Women’s Western Amateur and Women’s Western Open, laying the groundwork for her later recognition as a major champion after the LPGA’s establishment.
Turning professional in 1948 marked a new chapter for Suggs, leading to an illustrious career that included 58 professional victories, including an impressive 11 major titles. Her consistency during the 1950s and 1960s, where she consistently finished in the top three of the season-ending money list, attested to her enduring excellence. Suggs made history in 1957 by becoming the first LPGA player to achieve a career Grand Slam with her victory in the LPGA Championship. Her impact extended beyond the course, earning her a place in the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame in 1967 and later induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1979. Suggs’ legacy is a testament to her skill, determination, and lasting influence on the sport of golf.
7. Nancy Lopez
Nancy Marie Lopez, a trailblazing American golfer, left an indelible mark on the LPGA Tour during the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s. Lopez’s golfing journey began with a remarkable win at the New Mexico Women’s Amateur at the age of 12 in 1969. Her prodigious talent continued to shine, securing US Girls’ Junior titles in 1972 and 1974. Joining the LPGA Tour in 1977, Lopez made an unforgettable impact in her inaugural full season in 1978, winning an astonishing nine tournaments, including an unprecedented streak of five consecutive victories. This remarkable success catapulted her to the forefront of women’s golf and earned her a spot on the cover of Sports Illustrated in July.
Lopez’s achievements extended beyond her inaugural season, earning her numerous accolades such as the Vare Trophy for the lowest scoring average, LPGA Rookie of the Year, LPGA Player of the Year, and the prestigious title of Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year. Over her illustrious career, Lopez amassed a total of 48 LPGA Tour victories, including wins in three major championships. Her remarkable consistency was evident as she continued to secure multiple wins each year from 1980 to 1984. Lopez’s impact on women’s golf transcended her achievements on the course, as she became a symbol of inspiration and paved the way for future generations of female golfers.
8. Babe Zaharias
Mildred Ella “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias was a trailblazer in the world of golf during the 1940s and early 1950s. However, her prowess extended far beyond the fairways, as she showcased exceptional talents in basketball, baseball, and track and field, epitomizing versatility. Reclaiming her amateur status in 1942 after dedicating three years solely to golf, Babe embarked on a remarkable journey that saw her secure 48 victories, including 10 major titles. In 1950, she achieved the Grand Slam by conquering the US Open, the Titleholders Championship, and the Women’s Western Open, setting a record by reaching 10 wins faster than any other LPGA golfer. Health challenges in 1952-53 tested her resolve, but Babe rebounded, setting another record as the fastest player to attain 20 wins in just two years and four months. Beyond her athletic feats, she excelled in diverse areas, winning the sewing championship at the South Texas State Fair and showcasing her musical talents. Babe Zaharias remains an enduring symbol of multitalented excellence in sports history.
9. Karrie Webb
Hailing from Australia, Karrie Webb stands as one of the country’s greatest golfers of all time. Her journey into professional golf commenced with a victory at the Australian Stroke Play Championship in 1994, showcasing early promise. Webb’s global impact became evident as she competed on various tours, securing wins at the Women’s Australian Open and the Weetabix Women’s British Open, earning her the title of European Rookie of the Year. With 41 victories on the LPGA Tour, Webb’s legacy as a dominant force in women’s golf is firmly established. Her induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame attests to her exceptional career, surpassing the achievements of many contemporaries. Karrie Webb’s influence extends beyond her home country, making her an iconic figure in the international golfing community.
10. Dame Laura Davies
Dame Laura Jane Davies, often nicknamed the “winning machine,” is celebrated as England’s most accomplished modern female golfer. Her consistent excellence is underscored by an impressive streak of victories on the Ladies European Tour every year from 1985 to 2010, a testament to her enduring skill and dominance. Davies made history as the first non-American to top the LPGA money list and holds the record for winning the Ladies European Tour Order of Merit seven times. Over her illustrious career, she secured 87 professional wins globally, including 20 on the LPGA Tour with four majors. Beyond her achievements on the course, Dame Laura’s impact is also recognized through her contributions to the growth and popularity of women’s golf. Her legacy as a winning force and a pioneer in English golf is firmly cemented in the annals of the sport.
How Have These Golf Legends Shaped the History of Women’s Golf?
The 10 female golf legends featured on this list have collectively shaped the history of women’s golf through their exceptional talent, trailblazing achievements, and enduring impact on the sport. Their contributions have transcended mere athletic prowess, influencing the perception of women’s golf and inspiring future generations of players. Here’s a closer look at how these golf legends have left an indelible mark on the history of women’s golf:
1. Breaking Gender Barriers:
Many of these legends played a pivotal role in breaking down gender barriers within the golfing world. During eras when golf was predominantly seen as a male-dominated sport, athletes like Babe Zaharias and Patty Berg demonstrated that women could excel on the course with skill, determination, and strategic play.
2. Elevating Standards of Excellence:
The golfing prowess of players like Annika Sörenstam, Inbee Park, and Karrie Webb set new standards of excellence in the women’s game. Their consistency in achieving major victories, topping world rankings, and winning prestigious tournaments showcased the high level of skill and competitiveness in women’s golf.
3. Expanding International Influence:
Golf, once perceived as primarily a Western sport, saw its horizons expand globally through the accomplishments of players like Annika Sörenstam and Inbee Park. Their international victories and participation in events worldwide not only showcased the global nature of the sport but also paved the way for more diversity and inclusivity.
4. Shaping Professional Structures:
Golf legends such as Kathy Whitworth and Nancy Lopez played key roles in shaping the professional structures of women’s golf. Whitworth’s impact extended beyond the course as she became the inaugural American captain for the Solheim Cup in 1990, emphasizing the importance of team competition in women’s golf.
5. Inspiring the Next Generation:
Perhaps the most significant contribution of these legends is the inspiration they’ve provided to aspiring female golfers. By demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges, achieving historic milestones, and displaying a love for the game, they have paved the way for young talents, fostering a new era of women’s golf that builds upon the foundation they laid.
These golf legends have collectively shaped the history of women’s golf by challenging norms, setting new standards, expanding the game’s reach, influencing professional structures, and leaving a lasting legacy that transcends the fairways. Their impact reverberates through the continued growth and evolution of women’s golf on both the national and international stages.
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