The world of golf has seen significant strides in promoting gender equality and diversity, thanks to trailblazers like Nelly Korda. Just recently, she shed light on the importance of inclusiveness in the sport and how mixed events (where both male and female golfers partake) should be more common!
Despite her plight being quite valid, over the years, golf has witnessed some remarkable mixed partnerships on the course, breaking barriers and setting new standards for excellence. And even though these weren’t 2 golfers pairing up, they certainly were a male and female duo leaving their mark on the sport!
Iconic mixed duos that set the course ablaze on the PGA Tour
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Even though it’s uncommon, men and women have paired up at times on the PGA Tour before. However, it wasn’t a scenario where both were pairing up to play together. In fact, these iconic duos are Tour stars being supported by female caddies on the course! And boy, are there some memorable ones on the list. Let’s explore these iconic duos that have rocked the course with their skills and camaraderie.
Fanny Sunesson and Nick Faldo’s time-tested partnership
Fanny Sunesson, a renowned female caddy, etched her name in golfing history by teaming up with English golf legend Nick Faldo. Together, they achieved remarkable success in the 1990s, securing four major titles. Sunesson’s expertise and strategic guidance played a crucial role in Faldo’s triumphs on the course.
Her achievements not only raised the bar for female caddies in men’s professional golf but also paved the way for more opportunities for women in the sport. And of course, without her, perhaps Sir Nick would have had a few lesser major wins!
Jesse and Jessie Mueller at the 2022 PGA Championship
Breaking the traditional mold, Jesse Mueller, a PGA Professional, had his wife Jessie as his caddy at the 2022 PGA Championship. This heartwarming partnership showcased the strength of a personal bond and mutual support on the golf course. Their unique pairing garnered a lot of attention and highlighted the growing acceptance of diverse caddy-player combinations in professional golf.
Steve and Nicki Stricker at the 2023 American Family Insurance Championship
Steve Stricker’s victory at the 2023 American Family Insurance Championship was made even more special as he had his wife, Nicki, as his caddy. The couple’s close-knit partnership and shared passion for golf shone brightly on the course. This pairing became an inspiring example of how strong relationships can enhance a golfer’s performance and success on the course.
Frankie Capan III and Charlynn Capan at the Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS
In a heartwarming moment at the Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS, Frankie Capan III shared an emotional embrace with his mother, Charlynn Capan, who was his caddy during the tournament. This touching display of family support symbolized the power of a parent-child bond and its positive influence on a golfer’s journey.
Patrick and Justine Reed at the Wyndham Championship
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Patrick Reed‘s victory at the Wyndham Championship was a family affair, as his wife, Justine, served as his caddy. The couple’s celebration on the 18th green with the Sam Snead Cup highlighted the strength of their partnership both on and off the course. Such pairings contribute to normalizing the presence of wives as caddies on the PGA Tour.
As Nelly Korda advocates for mixed golf and gains momentum, the sport continues to evolve, welcoming diverse pairings on the course. The iconic partnership between Fanny Sunesson and Nick Faldo set the stage for more inclusive opportunities in professional golf. It inspired other golfers and caddies to break barriers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Whether it’s a husband-wife duo, a golfer and their parent, or a partnership defying gender norms, these iconic pairings have proven that golf is a game of talent, dedication, and shared passion.
Watch This Story: LPGA Star to Accrue Tiger Woods’ Superstardom After Eclipsing A Whopping 70-Year-Old Debut Record