In celebration of Women’s History Month, we are taking an in-depth look at the history of women’s golf and identify the moments that had the most consequence. A panel of stakeholders in the women’s game, from top teachers to the CEO of the USGA, have identified the top 20 most consequential moments in the history of women’s golf. Throughout the month of March, we will release a new moment each weekday, counting down to the most consequential in the women’s game.
Starting with the founding of the LPGA Tour in 1950, we see how the 13 pioneers who started the tour laid the groundwork for women’s golf as we know it today. The LPGA Tour provided a platform for the best players to compete while inspiring generations to follow. Establishing a tour paved the way for women to play golf as part of their daily lives and made women’s golf visible through newspapers, magazines, television, and websites.
Title IX in 1972 expanded opportunities for women in sports, including golf. This landmark law made it illegal for someone’s sex to prevent access to educational opportunities, leading to a rise in women’s sports programs, scholarships, and opportunities. College golf thrived under Title IX, allowing legendary golfers like Annika Sorenstam and Nancy Lopez to develop their games on scholarships.
In 2003, Annika Sorenstam’s historic participation at the Bank of America Colonial sparked curiosity and excitement in the women’s game. Her performance showcased the high level of skill in women’s golf, further elevating the visibility of the sport. Se Ri Pak’s win at the U.S. Women’s Open in 1998 inspired a generation of Korean golfers and revolutionized the game in South Korea.
The Solheim Cup, modeled after the Ryder Cup, made its debut in 1990, bringing passionate energy to women’s golf and showcasing competitive and eventful matches. The inaugural Dinah Shore Winner’s Circle in 1972 was a turning point for commercializing the LPGA Tour, leading to increased exposure and more sponsors in women’s golf.
Babe Zaharias’ iconic U.S. Women’s Open win in 1954, despite battling cancer, remains one of the greatest comeback stories in sports history. Mickey Wright’s dominant season in 1963, where she won 13 LPGA titles, set a high standard for excellence in the women’s game. Nancy Lopez’s standout rookie season in 1978 brought unprecedented attention to women’s golf.
Kathy Whitworth’s record-setting career with 88 LPGA wins in 1982 solidified her as one of the game’s greatest players. Inbee Park’s completion of the career Grand Slam in 2015, becoming one of only seven players to win four different majors, showcased her remarkable talent and success in the sport. Judy Bell’s historic presidency at the USGA in 1996 marked a significant milestone for women in golf leadership.
The USGA’s establishment of the U.S. Women’s Amateur in 1895 set the foundation for women’s golf in the United States, paving the way for future generations of female golfers. Lydia Ko’s ascent to World No. 1 at age 17 in 2015 solidified her as a generational talent and inspirational figure in the game. These moments highlight the evolution and impact of women’s golf, shaping the sport into what it is today.
