Mickey Wright dead: LPGA Tour great dies, aged 85
American claimed a remarkable 44 titles between 1961 and 1964 and is second only to Kathy Whitworth on the all-time winning list
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Mickey Wright, who won 82 LPGA Tour titles including 13 majors, has died at the age of 85.
California native Wright joined the LPGA in 1955 and won a remarkable 44 times between 1961 and 1964 before retiring from full-time competition at the age of 34.
"We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Mickey Wright," LPGA commissioner Mike Whan told lpga.com.
"We lost a legend but we may also have lost the best swing in golf history today. Our thoughts are with her family and friends."
Kathy Whitworth, who with 88 LPGA titles is the only player to have won more than Wright, said: "Today the golf world lost one of its greatest champions.
"I owe a great deal to Mickey Wright. She contributed so much to my career success and to my life as well.
"What a blessing to play alongside Mickey. It was impossible to be around her without knowing she was someone very special."
Wright was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1976 and her total of 13 majors is second only to Patty Berg's 15.
Sweden's 10-time major winner Annika Sorenstam wrote on Instagram: "I am very sorry to learn about the passing of golf legend, Mickey Wright.
"She was one of the best women's golfers of all time and by many accounts had the best swing in golf history.
"I have always respected Mickey and the way she chose to quietly go about her business and stay out of the limelight after she stopped playing.
"With her being very shy and also keeping her stats so diligently, I felt we had a few things in common.
"We are grateful for her many contributions to the game."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments