Is Annika Sorenstam part of the golf Hall of Fame? The answer is, yes. She became an LPGA Hall-of-Famer in 2003. In 2019, Sorenstam was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame. The 53-year-old is arguably the greatest player in the history of women’s golf.

One of the most decorated golfers ever, Annika Sorenstam’s top-flight career spanned for close to two decades, 17 years to be precise. She turned pro in 1992 and retired in 2008. In between, she won 72 LPGA Tour titles, including 10 Majors. Overall, she has 90 career wins worldwide. Becoming the World Golf Hall-of-Famer in 2003 was Sorenstam’s crowning glory.

Criteria for Hall of Fame

The question is, what must a golfer achieve to become an LPGA Hall of Fame inductee? Certain criteria must be met. A player has to either win a Major or the Vare Trophy or the Rolex Player of the Year honour. She also must accumulate at least 27 points. One point is awarded for an LPGA official tournament victory, while two points are awarded for a Major win.

An Olympic gold earns a golfer one point. Besides, as the LPGA’s official website mentions, the LPGA Hall of Fame Committee can pick selected individuals via the Honorary Category. Sorenstam met the points criteria to become a Hall-of-Famer. The requirement of having at least a 10-year LPGA career has now been done away with.

However, Annika’s achievements weren’t just restricted to winning on the greens. Sorenstam also annexed eight Rolex Player of the Year awards (a record) and six Vare Trophies. The latter is awarded for the lowest scoring average in a season.

Read more: Annika Sorenstam Says Golf Has Given Her Confidence, Gets Inducted as a Member at Augusta National Golf Club

Moreover, Sorenstam was the first female player to shoot 59, and break 60, in an official tournament. She was the first female player to play in a PGA Tour event as well – the Colonial Invitational in 2003.

Annika Sorenstam oozes humility

Four years ago, after being inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame, Sorenstam told the LPGA official website: “It’s certainly a huge honor. What an elite group of women that have been able to be recognized by the PGA of America, so I obviously find it very special that they think my achievements on and off the golf course are worthy of that.”

Her LPGA Hall of Fame acceptance speech was like this: “I’m delighted to be here this evening. Acceptance into the Hall of Fame means gaining approval from those whom I deeply respect. I’m a little overwhelmed, achieving this so quickly in my career. However, I’m very honored to be part of this elite group.” Sorenstam is now helping nurture future champions.

Watch this story: ‘A Great Union’: Hall of Famers Along With Golf Fans Wish Annika Sorenstam and Husband As They Achieve a Personal Milestone