Memorable Moments in Women’s Major Championship Golf
By Ken Martin, Keiser University College of Golf Professor – PGA Certified Professional
Women’s major championship golf has produced some of history’s most exciting and inspiring moments. From record-breaking performances to dramatic finishes, these moments have defined the careers of legendary golfers and captivated fans worldwide. This blog highlights just a few unforgettable moments in the history of women’s major championships, celebrating the talent, determination, and achievements of the game’s greatest players.
Glenna Collett Vare – Six U.S. Women’s Amateur Titles
Glenna Collett Vare was one of the most dominant amateur golfers of the early 20th century. She won a record six U.S. Women’s Amateur titles (1922, 1925, 1928, 1929, 1930, and 1935), showcasing her exceptional skill and competitive spirit. Known for her powerful swing and unwavering determination, she helped elevate women’s golf to new levels of popularity. Beyond her victories, Vare played a crucial role in promoting the game and inspiring future generations of female golfers. The prestigious Vare Trophy, awarded annually to the LPGA player with the lowest scoring average, is named in her honor, reflecting her lasting legacy in the sport.
Babe Zaharias Wins the 1954 U.S. Women’s Open After Cancer Surgery
Babe Didrikson Zaharias, one of history’s most dominant female athletes, won the 1954 U.S. Women’s Open in spectacular fashion. Just a year after undergoing surgery for colon cancer, Zaharias displayed remarkable resilience and skill, winning the tournament by 12 strokes. Her inspiring victory remains one of the most extraordinary comebacks in golf history.
Mickey Wright’s Dominance in the 1960s
Mickey Wright is widely regarded as one of the greatest women golfers of all time, and her dominance in the 1960s was unparalleled. One of her most memorable performances came in the 1961 U.S. Women’s Open, where she won by six strokes. Her flawless swing and consistency helped her capture 13 major championships, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Nancy Lopez’s Breakthrough at the 1978 LPGA Championship
Nancy Lopez’s 1977-1978 seasons began one of the most remarkable careers in women’s golf. She turned professional in 1977 and quickly gained attention with her strong performances. However, it was in 1978 that Lopez made history. As an LPGA rookie, she won an astonishing nine tournaments, including five consecutive victories,
and secured her first major championship at the LPGA Championship. Her dominance earned her the LPGA Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year honors, making her the first golfer to achieve both in the same season. Lopez’s electrifying play and engaging personality helped elevate women’s golf to new heights, inspiring a new generation of players.
Kathy Whitworth – Six Majors – 88 Wins
Kathy Whitworth, one of the most successful golfers in history, won six major championships during her illustrious career. Her victories include the 1967 and 1971 Titleholders Championships, the 1967 and 1971 LPGA Championships, and the 1975 and 1976 Women’s PGA Championships. Known for her exceptional consistency and competitive spirit, Whitworth became the first female golfer to win over 80 LPGA Tour events, finishing her career with a record 88 victories. Though she never won the U.S. Women’s Open, her dominance in major tournaments and overall achievements solidified her as one of the greatest players in women’s golf history.
Pat Bradley’s Career Grand Slam (1986)
In 1986, Pat Bradley joined the elite group of golfers to complete the career Grand Slam by winning the du Maurier Classic. Her consistency and perseverance across all major championships made her one of the greatest players of her era. This achievement cemented her place in golf history and highlighted the depth of talent in the women’s game.
Annika Sörenstam’s 10-Shot Victory at the 1996 U.S. Women’s Open
Annika Sörenstam announced her arrival as a dominant force in women’s golf with a stunning 10-shot victory at the 1996 U.S. Women’s Open. Her precision, work ethic, and physical and mental strength helped her become one of the most successful female golfers ever, winning 10 major championships during her illustrious career.
Se Ri Pak’s Landmark Win at the 1998 U.S. Women’s Open
Se Ri Pak’s victory at the 1998 U.S. Women’s Open was transformative for women’s golf. The South Korean golfer won in a dramatic playoff, inspiring a new generation of Korean players who would go on to dominate the sport. Her success paved the way for the global expansion of women’s golf and demonstrated the power of perseverance.
Karrie Webb’s Back-to-Back U.S. Women’s Open Titles (2000-2001)
Australian golf legend Karrie Webb made history by winning consecutive U.S. Women’s Open titles in 2000 and 2001. Her dominance in these championships showcased her ability to perform under pressure, and her victories helped elevate women’s golf to new heights on the international stage.
Lorena Ochoa’s Historic Triumph at the 2008 British Women’s Open
Lorena Ochoa, Mexico’s most outstanding female golfer, won her first major at the 2008 British Women’s Open at St Andrews, the home of golf. This victory was significant for Ochoa’s career and the growing influence of Latin American players in women’s golf. Her dominance in the late 2000s made her a global icon.
Inbee Park’s Three Consecutive Major Wins in 2013
Inbee Park achieved one of the rarest feats in golf by winning three consecutive major championships in 2013. Her victories at the Kraft Nabisco Championship, the LPGA Championship, and the U.S. Women’s Open showcased her remarkable putting and composure under pressure. This historic run cemented her legacy as one of the greatest female golfers of all time.
Lexi Thompson’s Emotional U.S. Women’s Open Victory in 2014
Lexi Thompson’s victory at the 2014 U.S. Women’s Open was a defining moment in her career. At just 19 years old, she displayed remarkable skill and poise to win her first major championship. Her success helped draw more young fans to the sport and demonstrated the exciting future of women’s golf.
Nelly Korda’s Olympic Gold and 2021 Major Win
Nelly Korda had a historic year in 2021, winning the Women’s PGA Championship and then capturing the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Her achievements signified the strength of American women’s golf and solidified her place among the game’s elite players.
Conclusion
The history of women’s major championship golf is filled with unforgettable moments that have shaped the sport. From Babe Zaharias’ courageous comeback to Inbee Park’s historic run, these moments showcase the resilience, talent, and impact of the greatest female golfers. As women’s golf continues to grow, future champions will undoubtedly add to this rich legacy, creating new moments that will be remembered for generations.
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