Annika Sorenstam talks about the LPGA's 75th Anniversary as she tees is up at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions to kickstart the 2025 season

As the LPGA celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, few players symbolise the tour’s legacy quite like Annika Sorenstam. A dominant force in women's golf, Sorenstam has played an instrumental role in shaping the modern game. Speaking at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, she shared her thoughts on the milestone, her connection to the LPGA and the evolution of women’s golf.

Looking back on the tour’s history, Sorenstam acknowledged the vision and perseverance of the LPGA’s Founders. “It’s amazing to see the growth of women's sports and especially golf,” she said. “You look back and think about the trailblazers, the Founders, and what they did with their vision. Here we are in 2025, and it’s certainly on a different level in every aspect.”

Though she has long since retired from full-time competition, Sorenstam remains connected to the game. “That’s why I think it’s fun for me to still be able to somewhat compete,” she noted. “Just to have a foot in the game - I love that. I still enjoy the game.”

Legacy and influence

When asked if she has had time to reflect on her own impact, Sorenstam remained characteristically humble. “I don’t really look at the things that I did from that perspective,” she admitted. “I think it’s easier if other people judge your contributions. But when I look back on my years on the LPGA, it makes me smile. I’m certainly proud of what I achieved, reaching my goals and having a chance to really pursue my career.”

She also recognised the impact of other European players, particularly fellow Swedes like Liselotte Neumann and Helen Alfredsson. “Neumann won the U.S. Women's Open in 1988, and I think many young girls started dreaming. Maybe there’s a chance for us to do that,” she recalled. “I always kept an eye on them.”

A connection to the Founders

Sorenstam had the opportunity to meet some of the LPGA’s Founders during her career, an experience she holds in high regard. “Patty Berg was quite a character - she had amazing humor,” she remembered. “Louise Suggs, Kathy Whitworth, and Marlene Hagge - I met them all. When they showed up, we had so much respect for them that we didn’t really want to approach them. As a rookie, I was probably the last one in line to say hi. But I always kept an eye on them and thought, ‘Thank you.’”

Now, with none of the original Founders remaining, Sorenstam finds herself in a position of influence for today’s generation. “I never really thought about that,” she admitted when asked if she now fills a similar role. “The Founders started the Tour, so that puts them in a different category. But every generation does their part to move it forward. My generation - players like Karrie Webb, Se Ri Pak, and Lorena Ochoa - we contributed in our own way.”

The LPGA’s future

As the LPGA undergoes a leadership transition, since Mollie Marcoux Samaan stepped down, Sorenstam remains optimistic about the tour’s trajectory. “It’s an interesting time for the LPGA,” she said. “Women’s sports are in an amazing place right now, with a lot of opportunity and upside.”

She emphasised the importance of visibility and strong leadership. “We all want to be seen and heard, whether that’s through TV or any kind of exposure. I think when you look at leadership, it’s important to have somebody who can communicate with a lot of people - players, media, partners, and fans. It’s a complex job.”

While she has no desire to take on the role herself, she trusts the LPGA will find the right person. “They have a search firm in place. Fingers crossed that the right person steps in at the right time.”

A proud past, a promising future

As the LPGA enters its 75th year, the tour stands as a proof of the perseverance and determination of its Founders, the talent of its players, and the passion of those who continue to support women’s golf. For Sorenstam, being part of this history is a source of immense pride. “The LPGA has a rich history, and I’m super proud to have been part of that.”

To find out more about the LPGA Tour's 75th Anniversary celebrations, please visit www.LPGA75.com