Born: 1988 (South Korea)
Biography:
Inbee Park (Korean: 박인비; Hanja: 朴仁妃, pronounced [pɐɡinbi] or [pɐk̚] [inbi]; born 12 July 1988) is a South Korean professional golfer who has left an indelible mark on the world of women’s golf. Known for her immense skills and unwavering determination, Park has achieved numerous milestones throughout her career, making her one of the most successful golfers of her generation.
Park’s journey in golf began at the age of 10 when she picked up a club for the first time. Recognizing her talent and passion, she moved to the United States at the age of 12 to pursue her golfing dreams. Her early dedication paid off as she quickly rose through the ranks, winning nine events on the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) circuit and earning the title of a five-time Rolex Junior All-American.
As an amateur golfer, Park showcased her skills at various prestigious tournaments. She was a semifinalist at the 2003 U.S. Women’s Amateur and claimed victory at the 2002 U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship. Furthermore, she finished as the runner-up in both 2003 and 2005 at the same event. Park’s remarkable performances as an amateur earned her several opportunities to compete against professional golfers, including appearances at the Kraft Nabisco Championship and the LPGA Takefuji Classic.
Park’s success as an amateur laid a strong foundation for her professional career. In 2006, after graduating from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, Park sought permission from the LPGA to qualify for the tour as a 17-year-old. Despite the LPGA’s initial denial, Park remained undeterred. She enrolled at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas before ultimately turning professional and competing on the Duramed Futures Tour, where the minimum entry age had been lowered to 17 earlier that year. Park’s remarkable performance on the Futures Tour, with 11 top-10 finishes, earned her exempt status on the LPGA Tour for the 2007 season.
Park’s rookie season in 2007 was a glimpse into the success that would follow throughout her career. She finished tied for fourth at the U.S. Women’s Open and tied for second at the Safeway Classic, signaling her potential as a skilled and competitive golfer on the LPGA Tour.
Throughout her career, Park has achieved numerous accolades and records. For four separate occasions, she held the number one ranking in the Women’s World Golf Rankings. Her outstanding performances in the 2013 season were particularly awe-inspiring, with three consecutive major wins, making her only the fourth player in LPGA Tour history to accomplish such a feat in a calendar year.
Park’s dominance extended to the U.S. Women’s Open, where she became the youngest player to secure victory and the second player, after Annika Sorenstam, to win the Women’s PGA Championship three years in a row. Additionally, Park holds the honor of being the seventh player to win four different majors during her career and achieve a career Grand Slam, further cementing her legacy in women’s golf.
Beyond her individual achievements, Park’s impact on society is also noteworthy. In 2016, she became the first golfer to win an Olympic gold medal in the women’s individual tournament since 1900. This historic victory not only solidified Park’s place in women’s golf history but also elevated the sport’s recognition on a global platform.
Park’s dedication to her craft and her unwavering spirit serve as an inspiration to aspiring golfers around the world. She has become a role model for young women, embodying determination, resilience, and excellence both on and off the golf course.
Awards:
– Holder of the number one ranking in the Women’s World Golf Rankings for four separate runs.
– Winner of seven major championships, including three consecutive major wins in the 2013 season.
– Youngest player to win the U.S. Women’s Open.
– Second player, after Annika Sorenstam, to win the Women’s PGA Championship three years in a row.
– One of only seven players to win four different majors during her career and achieve a career Grand Slam.
– Olympic gold medalist in the women’s individual tournament in 2016.