Born: 1935 (San Diego, California)
Died: 2020
Biography:
Mary Kathryn Mickey Wright was an American professional golfer who made a significant impact on the sport during her career. Born on February 14, 1935, in San Diego, California, she attended Herbert Hoover High School before embarking on her successful golf career. Wright’s passion for golf began to flourish when she won her first important title, the 1952 U.S. Girls’ Junior. She later attended Stanford University and played for its golf team before turning professional.
Wright’s early success continued into her professional career on the LPGA Tour, which she joined in 1955. Throughout her time on the tour, Wright achieved an astounding 82 LPGA Tour career victories, which puts her in second place on the all-time win list, just behind Kathy Whitworth’s record of 88 victories. Notably, 13 of Wright’s victories came in major championships, ranking her second only to Patty Berg, who won 15 majors.
From 1961 to 1964, Wright dominated the LPGA money list, clinching the top spot for four consecutive seasons. Overall, she made the top ten on the list an impressive thirteen times between 1956 and 1969. Wright’s remarkable consistency was demonstrated by her ability to win at least one LPGA title for 14 straight seasons, a remarkable achievement.
One of Wright’s most memorable performances occurred at the inaugural Tall City Open in 1964. In the third and final round, she shot a remarkable 62, setting the record for the lowest score in LPGA Tour history at that time. Notably, this record-setting performance took place on a course (Hogan Park in Midland, Texas) where the men’s record was 66 at the time, highlighting the magnitude of her accomplishment. Additionally, her victory at the Tall City Open included a remarkable final round comeback of 10 shots, which is tied for the largest in LPGA history.
Wright’s skill and technique were widely recognized, with legendary golfer Ben Hogan stating that her swing was the best he had ever seen. Alongside her talent, Wright’s retirement from full-time golf at the age of 34 in 1969 due to foot problems demonstrated her resilience and determination to overcome challenges.
Throughout her career, Wright amassed an impressive collection of 13 major championships between 1958 and 1966, setting her apart from her peers. Notably, she remains the only player in LPGA Tour history to hold all four major titles simultaneously. Wright’s achievements and contributions to the sport earned her a well-deserved induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Even after retiring, Wright continued to make occasional appearances on the golf course. She resided in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where she enjoyed recreational golf. Overcoming personal struggles, including breast cancer, Wright displayed remarkable strength both on and off the golf course.
On February 17, 2020, Mickey Wright passed away at the age of 85 due to a heart attack. Prior to her death, she had been hospitalized following a fall a few weeks earlier. Her lasting legacy in golf was acknowledged by Golf Digest magazine, which ranked her as the ninth greatest golfer of all time and the top female golfer in 2000. In a major 2009 survey published by Golf Magazine, she was selected as the eighth best player of all time.
Mickey Wright’s incredible skill, numerous victories, and impact on the sport of golf have established her as one of the greatest female golfers in history. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations and shape the sport for years to come.
Awards:
– World Golf Hall of Fame inductee.