While men’s golf often takes the spotlight, women’s golf offers a different yet equally captivating game. The precision, strategic shot-making, and finesse in the women’s game are just as gripping, if not more so, in terms of tension and skill. Female golfers today are pushing boundaries in ways that make every round an unpredictable and thrilling affair. The level of athleticism and competition on display is world-class, and when the stakes are high, the intensity on the course is nothing short of electric.
From the days of pioneers like Babe Zaharias and Mickey Wright, who dominated the early stages of women’s golf, to the modern-day powerhouses like Nelly Korda and Jin Young Ko, the journey of women’s golf is a testament to resilience, hard work, and a passion for excellence. These players have not only honed their craft but have inspired a whole new generation of girls and women to take up the sport.
The future of women’s golf looks brighter than ever. With more young talent coming through the ranks and growing global recognition, it’s clear that women’s golf is experiencing a golden era. Whether you’re watching a nerve-wracking final round of a major or witnessing a new record being set, the excitement is undeniable. And the best part? This is only the beginning. Whether you’re a beginner getting to grips with your swing or a seasoned player fine-tuning your short game, there’s never been a better time to celebrate and be inspired by the greatest female golfers of all time.
A brief history of women’s golf
Let’s take a quick trip back in time. Women’s golf started gaining serious momentum in the late 19th century when the Ladies’ Golf Union (LGU) was established in the UK in 1893. Not long after, the U.S. followed suit with its own women’s tournaments.
But it wasn’t until the 1950s that things really took off with the creation of the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association). Since then, the sport has grown into a global phenomenon. Legends like Babe Zaharias, Mickey Wright, and Annika Sörenstam paved the way for today’s stars, smashing records and proving that golf isn’t just a man’s game.
Who is the greatest female golfer of all time?
Ask a golf fan who the greatest female golfer is, and they’ll probably say Annika Sörenstam. With a staggering 72 LPGA Tour wins and 10 major championships, Sörenstam is as close to golf royalty as it gets. She dominated the field for over a decade and became the first woman to play in a men’s PGA Tour event in over 50 years.
However, she’s not the only name up for discussion. Kathy Whitworth holds the record for the most LPGA Tour wins—88, to be exact! And then there’s Mickey Wright, often called the best swing in golf history. But if we’re talking about influence, you can’t leave out Babe Zaharias, an Olympic medalist and multi-sport athlete who won 10 majors in the 1940s and ’50s.
It’s a close race, but Sörenstam’s sheer consistency and impact on the game make her the one to beat in the all-time debate.
Who is the best female golfer right now?
Fast forward to 2024, and the field is packed with talent. One name that stands out is Nelly Korda. The American sensation has already claimed a major title, an Olympic gold medal, and the coveted World No. 1 ranking. She combines power, precision, and calm nerves on the course, making her a formidable competitor in any tournament.
But Korda isn’t without competition. Jin Young Ko from South Korea is another dominant player. With multiple major titles under her belt, she’s one of the most consistent performers on the LPGA Tour. And let’s not forget Lydia Ko, who has been a force in women’s golf for nearly a decade.
In short, women’s golf has never been more competitive, with a handful of players capable of taking the top spot on any given day.
Who is the best female golfer in the world in 2024?
As we come to the close of the season, there are some standout players of 2024. Nelly Korda and Jin Young Ko will continue their battle for supremacy, but keep an eye on Atthaya Thitikul, a young Thai golfer who’s been rising through the ranks. Also, Rose Zhang, a recent sensation who turned pro with a bang, might have something to say about who’s No. 1 by the end of the year.
Who is the best female golfer in the UK?
We’ve got some serious talent here in the UK too! Georgia Hall is arguably the top British player at the moment. She shot to fame when she won the 2018 Women’s British Open and has been a consistent performer on the Ladies European Tour (LET) and LPGA ever since.
Another homegrown star is Charley Hull, who’s been making waves internationally for years. Known for her aggressive play and bold personality, she’s a fan favourite both at home and abroad. Together, Hull and Hall have become the faces of British women’s golf, and they’re leading the charge for a new generation of golfers.
The biggest women’s golf tournaments of 2024
The Major Championships & winners
The Chevron Championship (April): Watch the best of the best compete in California.
Winner: Nelly Korda, securing her fifth consecutive title with a final score of 275.
Second Place: Maja Stark (-11), two strokes behind
Tied for Third: Lauren Coughlin and Brooke Henderson.
The U.S. Women’s Open (June): Held in Pennsylvania this year, this is one of the most prestigious events in golf.
Winner: Yuka Saso (China)
The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship (June): The course at Sahalee Country Club in Washington will challenge even the pros.
Winner: Amy Yang (South Korea)
The Evian Championship (July): Stunning views in France and top-class golf—what’s not to love?
Winner: Ayaka Furue (China)
The AIG Women’s Open (August): The final major of the year will be held at Royal Porthcawl in Wales.
Winner: Lydia Ko (NZ)
The Solheim Cup (September)
Europe vs. the USA. Drama, passion, and team spirit collide in this biennial event, clinched by the USA in 2024.
The LPGA Tour Championship (November)
The season’s grand finale in Florida, where the biggest names will battle it out for one of the largest prize pools in golf.
The Olympics (Paris, August)
Golf in the Olympics is still relatively new, but expect a fiercely competitive event as the world’s best golfers go for gold. This will be the second time golf is featured in the Summer Olympics, and the world’s best golfers will compete for gold at the historic Le Golf National course.
Golf: Lydia Ko (NZ)
Silver: Esther Henseleit (Germany)
Bronze: Xiyu Lin (China)
How can girls get into golf in the UK?
Golf isn’t just for the pros—if you’re looking to introduce the next Georgia Hall or Charley Hull to the sport, there are plenty of ways to get started! Here are a few tips for getting girls involved in golf:
Local Clubs & Youth Programs
One of the best ways to get started is by checking out programs like Girls Golf Rocks, which introduces girls to golf in a fun, relaxed environment. Many golf clubs across the UK also offer junior programs tailored for beginners.
Coaching
Most clubs have PGA-qualified coaches who run beginner sessions. It’s a great way for young players to get comfortable with the game while learning from experienced pros.
Affordable Gear
Golf can seem expensive, but you don’t need to break the bank! Look for junior clubs and second-hand gear online. Many courses also offer discounted green fees for juniors.
Get Inspired
Following players like Georgia Hall and Charley Hull can inspire girls to take up the sport and see where it can lead. There are also loads of women’s golf events throughout the UK, which can be a fun way to get a feel for the game.
Women’s golf has never been more exciting. From the legends of the past to the superstars of today, the sport continues to grow and inspire. Whether you’re cheering on Georgia Hall at the Women’s Open or watching Nelly Korda tear it up in the LPGA, there’s something for everyone. And for all the girls out there, remember: the next big name in women’s golf could be YOU!
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This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.