Born: 1970
Biography:
Annika Charlotta Sörenstam (pronounced [ˈǎnːɪka ˈsœ̂ːrɛnˌstam] (listen); born 9 October 1970) is a Swedish professional golfer. She is regarded as one of the best female golfers in history. Before stepping away from competitive golf at the end of the 2008 season, she had won 90 international tournaments as a professional, making her the female golfer with the most wins to her name.
Annika Sörenstam’s success in golf is marked by numerous victories and significant achievements. She has won an impressive 72 official LPGA tournaments, including ten majors, and 24 other tournaments internationally. In 2003, she accomplished a career grand slam, winning each of the four tournaments recognized as major championships during the main part of her career. This extraordinary feat established her as one of the all-time greats of women’s golf.
Throughout her career, Sörenstam consistently displayed exceptional skill and dominance on the golf course. She holds various all-time scoring records, including the lowest season scoring average of 68.6969 in 2004. Notably, she is the only female golfer to shoot a 59 in competition, a testament to her remarkable talent and precision.
Sörenstam’s success extended beyond the LPGA Tour. Representing Europe, she competed in the Solheim Cup on eight occasions between 1994 and 2007, becoming the event’s all-time leading points earner until her record was surpassed in 2011. In 2017, she served as the captain of the European Solheim Cup team, further demonstrating her leadership and commitment to the sport.
Leaving a lasting impact on the world of golf, Sörenstam shattered records and achieved numerous accolades. She earned a record eight Player of the Year awards and six Vare Trophies, given to the LPGA player with the lowest seasonal scoring average. Her achievements solidify her status as one of the most accomplished golfers, male or female, in history.
In 2003, Sörenstam made history by playing in the Bank of America Colonial tournament, becoming the first woman to compete in a PGA Tour event since 1945. Her participation broke barriers and showcased her talent and determination in the face of adversity.
Despite retiring from regular tournament golf in 2008, Sörenstam’s impact on the sport remains. As of the end of 2022, she still holds the top spot on the LPGA’s career money list, earning over $22 million, a staggering $2 million ahead of her closest rival. This remarkable achievement is even more impressive considering she played 187 fewer events.
Beyond her remarkable success on the golf course, Sörenstam has had a profound influence on society, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and break down barriers. Her dedication, work ethic, and relentless pursuit of excellence serve as a true inspiration to athletes around the world.
Awards:
– Eight Player of the Year awards
– Six Vare Trophies
– Presidential Medal of Freedom (2021)