LPGA celebrates 75th anniversary of golf

Founded in 1950, LPGA was founded by 13 pioneering women who set out to create opportunities for professional golf for women. Today, 75 years later, LPGA becomes the longest-running professional sports organization for women.

Those founding members face significant gender barriers when women’s track and field are rarely recognized or financially supported. They compete for moderate wallets, participate in limited competitions, and work tirelessly to develop the competition. Since then, a small tour in the United States has expanded to a global phenomenon. There were millions of bonuses at risk and competitions were held on multiple continents.

This milestone is an opportunity to celebrate the icons of LPGA, who define their own era and shape the future of the sport. From Kathy Whitworth and Mickey Wright to Annika Sörenstam and Karrie Webb, these women set new standards for excellence.

It’s also time to recognize the pioneers who break the barriers and expand the game. Alethea Gibson, Nancy Lopez, Se Ri Pak and others played a key role in making LPGA a more inclusive and diverse organization, inspiring young women from all backgrounds to pursue professional golf.

Now is also a good time to look back at how these players have changed the sport. LPGA driving distance has soared over the past few decades, with only a few dozen more than 260 yards in 2010. The number exceeded 65 times in 2020 and reached 75 players in 2024.

A true global journey

LPGA has evolved from a U.S.-centric tour to a true international tour, with players from dozens of countries competing at the highest level. Through expanded television coverage and digital platforms like LPGA.com, women’s golf has grown visibility, bringing games to millions of globally, bringing new fans to the sport.

Think of Jeeno Thitikul as an example of international success. The 22-year-old golfer has more than $10 million in formal career income. These are four wins since the 2022 rookie season.

Sponsors also played a key role in this growth. From early supporters to major global brands today, investment in LPGA has led to record wallets, reflecting an increasing respect and appreciation for women’s golf.

Bonus have also grown steadily over the past few years. This is the main attraction for talented golfers. Swedish golfer Annika Sorenstam has played with LPGA since 1994 and has earned more than $22.5 million in career. In her career, she has 72 victories.

But it’s not all about money. Player development programs such as LPGA-USGA Women’s Golf have introduced the game to millions of young women, providing structured avenues for professionals. As a coach, I have witnessed first-hand how these initiatives enable young girls to develop their skills and confidence in their courses and courses.

In addition to competition, LPGA has made a significant impact through charity programs and community outreach programs. These efforts continue to strengthen the connection between professional golf and the communities it serves, inspiring the next generation of female golfers.

There is a famous golf offer that always makes me smile, a star from LPGA:

Golf is a game of turnovers, and the winner is the ones who have the best turnovers.

Kathy Whitworth

The future of LPGA is brighter than ever. With the traces of rising stars, the increase in bonuses and a growing global audience, this tour is expected to achieve greater success. The progress made in the past 75 years is a tribute to the brave women who have built the organization from scratch.

Happy Anniversary, LPGA. This is an outstanding 75 years.

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