The Inspiring Legacy of Golf Champion Annika Sorenstam and her Impactful Foundation

It's a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Orlando, Florida, with the sun shining brightly. Annika Sorenstam, one of the greatest female golfers of all time, is enjoying a fun putting game in her backyard with her husband and children instead of hitting the golf courses scattered across the state.

Sorenstam's professional legacy is unparalleled, from her historic 59 score to her 90 international wins. Despite her past successes, she continues to work tirelessly to give back to the sport that has brought her so much joy.

Since retiring in 2008, the former pro has been focusing on her family and her foundation, which supports young women in golf. She believes that investing in women will lead to success, not just in golf, but in life as well.

During an interview at her Florida home, Sorenstam explained, "The girls who come through the foundation are talented golfers, but not all of them pursue professional golf, which is okay because that's not the main goal of the foundation. The purpose is to inspire them to chase their dreams and show them the many opportunities available for women in this sport."

From humble beginnings to world champion

Sorenstam, known as the golf "GOAT," started out as a young girl from the small town of Bro, Sweden. She participated in various sports but wasn't initially interested in golf.

She initially found golf to be not very exciting. She was looking for more action and speed in activities.

Living near a golf course, she was persuaded by her parents with the promise of ice cream for her and her sister Charlotta to start playing. Eventually, she began to appreciate the game and the challenges it presented.

At the age of 18, she achieved victory in the World Amateur Championship, which sparked her realization that she could turn her passion for golf into a career. She found inspiration in fellow female golfers such as Nancy Lopez and Beth Daniel, emphasizing the significance of seeing representation in the sport. Witnessing Liselotte Neumann, a fellow Swede, win the US Open in 1988, Sorenstam felt a sense of connection and possibility, thinking to herself, "If she can do it with a similar background to mine, then maybe I can too."

Arguably the greatest female golfer, Annika Sorenstam may be retired from the game, but her drive to empower women in the sport is as strong as ever.

Arguably the greatest female golfer, Annika Sorenstam may be retired from the game, but her drive to empower women in the sport is as strong as ever.

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When she turned professional, Sorenstam was aware of the differences in earnings and exposure between men's and women's golf. Despite this, she was thrilled to have the opportunity to play and didn't dwell on the disparity. She believed in the potential growth of women's golf and hoped for progress in the future.

At that time, Sorenstam could not have anticipated that she would play a significant role in transforming women's golf and taking the sport to new heights.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 21: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland tees off on the eighth hole during the Final Round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club on January 21, 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland was seen teeing off on the eighth hole during the Final Round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club on January 21, 2024. The event took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

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During her professional career, Sorenstam won a total of 11 major championships and achieved an impressive 72 victories on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) tour. She also holds the record for the most Rolex Player of the Year awards and Vare Trophies for the lowest scoring average in a season.

In 2001, Sorenstam made history as the only female golfer to break 60 in an official competition. This milestone was a significant moment in her career and further solidified her place as one of the greatest golfers of all time.

Being the first woman to achieve something gives you credibility and a cool nickname like ‘Miss 59,’ according to Sorenstam. She believes in setting high standards and breaking barriers through hard work.

This milestone paved the way for her to compete against male golfers at the 2003 Colonial, making her the first woman in more than 50 years to participate in a PGA event.

"I remember feeling really excited. I thought to myself, 'I'm going to give it my all and work even harder,'" she expressed. "I wanted to demonstrate that we are capable of playing, and it turned out to be a wonderful experience."

Giving back to the game

In 2008, at the age of 38, Sorenstam decided to step away from competitive golf. However, she remained active in the golf world by designing golf courses and clothing. Additionally, she founded the ANNIKA Foundation, with a goal to support women and girls in golf through clinics, tournaments, mentorship, and financial aid.

According to the National Golf Foundation, 38% of golfers under 18 in the US are girls. When Sorenstam started her foundation, this number was below 20%.

"I love hanging out with these young girls because I remember what it was like to be 14 or 15 years old. You have so many questions and dreams, but you're not sure where to turn. Getting guidance at that age is crucial."

Sorenstam, pictured here on the right, presents the trophy to winner Lilia Vu at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican on November 12, 2023.

Sorenstam, pictured here on the right, presents the trophy to winner Lilia Vu at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican on November 12, 2023.

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Every year, more than 600 girls from 60 different countries take part in the ANNIKA Foundation programs. These include major golf events and development initiatives, according to Sorenstam. Additionally, the foundation gives back nearly $9 million to support girls' golf annually.

Sorenstam is supported in her efforts by her husband, Mike McGee, who plays a crucial role in securing support from corporate sponsors.

“She gives back more than anybody I’ve ever seen,” he told CNN. “I’m blessed to get to work with Annika, she’s my boss literally and figuratively.”

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Losing his young son to a drug overdose left him shattered emotionally. However, a special trip to Scotland played a crucial role in his healing process.

McGee was instrumental in ensuring that Sorenstam's name was featured in her very first LPGA tournament in Tampa, known as THE ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican.

Mollie Marcoux Samaan, the commissioner of the LPGA, emphasized the importance of having Annika Sorenstam's name associated with the tournament. She expressed gratitude for the inspiration Sorenstam provides to girls and women both on and off the golf course.

In the inaugural year of the tournament, Louise Rydqvist, a Swedish amateur and US collegiate golfer who had benefitted from Sorenstam's foundation, had the opportunity to participate. Sorenstam described this as a "full circle" moment.

She added that being able to fulfill her dream of playing in an LPGA event feels wonderful. Providing playing opportunities for both professional players and upcoming talents is a rewarding experience.

Honoring a living legend

Katherine Muzi, a budding professional golfer, was among the first to participate in Sorenstam’s development program at Old Barnwell in Aiken, South Carolina. For three years, she had access to the golf course, housing, financial aid, training, and mentorship from Sorenstam herself.

Muzi shared with CNN at the ANNIKA Foundation’s inaugural fundraiser of the year in February, “The program really opened doors for me. Just being involved with anything related to Annika has been incredibly inspiring for me and many other girls playing golf. Being around her has had a positive impact on me, and I feel grateful for the opportunity.”

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 25: Annika Sorenstam of Sweden reacts on the first tee during the first round of the Gainnbridge LPGA at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club on February 25, 2021 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)

Annika Sorenstam from Sweden shows her reaction as she stands on the first tee during the opening round of the Gainnbridge LPGA at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida on February 25, 2021. (Image by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)

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Annika Sorenstam made a comeback to golf after being away for 13 years. The exciting event took place at the Country Club of Orlando. The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) started off the event by honoring Sorenstam with the Digger Smith Award. This award is given each year to someone who is dedicated to the AJGA’s goal of nurturing young golfers through competitive junior golf.

Sorenstam quickly called up McGee to receive the award with her, emphasizing that it was a team effort from start to finish.

She mentioned that while winning games and trophies is wonderful, what truly matters is winning someone's heart and inspiring them.

Ryleigh Knaub, a junior golfer, expressed the impact of the golf legend beyond the course. At the event, she emotionally paid tribute to her, highlighting how she has become a mother, a wife, a role model, an ambassador, and a champion for girls like herself. Knaub mentioned that the legend has shown that it is possible to have it all.

Editor's P/S:

Annika Sorenstam's unwavering commitment to empowering women in golf is truly inspiring. Her belief in the potential of young girls and her dedication to providing them with opportunities to succeed is remarkable. Through her foundation, she is not only fostering their growth in the sport but also instilling in them the confidence and determination to pursue their dreams beyond the golf course. Her legacy extends far beyond her own accomplishments, as she continues to shape the future of women's golf and inspire generations to come.

Sorenstam's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a legendary golfer is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. Her recognition of the disparities between men's and women's golf in her early career did not deter her, but rather fueled her determination to make a difference. Her historic achievements, including the record-breaking 59 score and her success against male golfers, paved the way for greater recognition and exposure for women in the sport. Today, her efforts through the ANNIKA Foundation continue to inspire and empower young women, ensuring that the future of golf is bright and inclusive.