Annika Sörenstam is a Swedish-American professional golfer, businesswoman, and philanthropist, known as one of the greatest female golfers ever. She started playing golf at 12 and was part of the Swedish national team from 1987 to 1992. Annika attended the University of Arizona, where she won an NCAA title in 1991 and received All-America honours in 1991 and 1992.
Turning professional in 1992, she quickly gained recognition, winning the European Tour’s Rookie of the Year in 1993 and the LPGA Tour’s Rookie of the Year in 1994. Her first LPGA victory was at the 1995 U.S. Women’s Open. She won eight LPGA Player of the Year awards, including five in a row from 2001 to 2005. In 2003, she achieved a career Grand Slam by winning all four major championships of her time and became the first woman to compete in a PGA Tour event since 1945. Over her career, Annika won 89 international tournaments, including 72 LPGA events and 10 major championships, and holds the record for the lowest scoring average in a season.
After retiring from competitive golf in 2008, she focused on business, designing golf courses and building her brand, becoming the first female golf pro to do so successfully. Annika founded the Annika Foundation to promote wellness and active living among youth.
Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2003, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2021 for her contributions to golf and philanthropy. Annika has also received many awards, including eight Rolex Player of the Year titles and three Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year awards. Her legacy inspires future generations of golfers and business leaders, reflecting her dedication and impact on sports and philanthropy.
