Angela Stanford, a legendary figure in women’s golf, bid a tearful farewell to major championship golf at the Amundi Evian Championship. After an incredible career that saw her play in an LPGA record 98 consecutive majors, the 46-year-old Texan has decided to step away from the largest stages in women’s golf. Her final hurrah at the 2024 Evian marked the end of an era for Stanford, who has made 103 major championship starts, with 102 coming as a professional. As she walked off the 18th green, tears streamed down her face as she reflected on her storied career.
Throughout her career, Stanford has been a model of consistency and excellence, with seven LPGA wins to her name. She made her mark on the tour in 2001 and quickly became a force to be reckoned with in major championships. In her 102 major starts as a professional, Stanford made the cut an impressive 67 times and recorded 14 top 10 finishes. Her crowning moment came in 2018 when she captured the Evian Championship, solidifying her place in golf history.
Stanford’s journey to the top of the women’s game has been filled with ups and downs, but through it all, she has remained a class act and a fan favorite. From her emotional debut at the Evian Masters to her final major appearance at the 2024 Evian, Stanford has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her ability to compete at the highest level for over 20 years is a testament to her dedication and passion for the game.
As Stanford took her final walk off the 18th at the Amundi Evian Championship, she was greeted by tournament director Jacques Bungert, who presented her with a bouquet of flowers. The moment was bittersweet for Stanford, who had kept her emotions in check throughout the day but couldn’t hold back the tears as she crossed the bridge on 18. The tears of gratitude were a fitting end to a remarkable career that has seen Stanford achieve heights that few in the game will ever reach.
From her humble beginnings as a small-town girl from Texas to her status as a major champion and golfing legend, Stanford’s career has been a true inspiration. Her dedication to the game, her competitive spirit, and her graceful demeanor both on and off the course have endeared her to fans around the world. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, Stanford leaves behind a legacy that will long be remembered in the annals of women’s golf.
In her final season on the LPGA, Angela Stanford has left an indelible mark on the sport, and her emotional farewell at the 2024 Amundi Evian Championship was a fitting tribute to her incredible career. As she hangs up her spikes and bids adieu to major championship golf, Stanford leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Her journey from small-town Texas to the pinnacle of women’s golf is a story of perseverance, determination, and unwavering passion for the game. Angela Stanford may be stepping away from the majors, but her impact on the sport will be felt for generations to come.