Why Is Team USA Wearing 88 On Their Caps At 2023 Solheim Cup?

Every two years, the Solheim Cup leaves an unforgettable mark in the pages of history. And the authors of the legends of the golf world are its golfers. This year the LPGA has decided to honour one such person whose career remains an ode to remember.

The aforementioned honoree is the famous Kathy Whitworth, a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame. She is the reason behind the ’88’ embroidered on the caps of the players, caddies, and captains in the 2023 Solheim Cup. But the question arises, why 88 in particular?

LPGA’s move to honor the memory of Kathy Whitworth this Solheim Cup

Kathy Whitworth has a strong record of achievements in golf. The famous professional golfer has won 88 LPGA Tour tournaments in her playing career which is more than what anyone has won on the LPGA Tour or the PGA Tour so far. Her perseverance and dedication are why 88, the number of times she won and held her head high, is embroidered on the hats of the Solheim Cup players, caddies, and captains this year.

The star golfer passed away in December 2022. The 2023 Solheim Cup’s apparel is, thus, a tribute to her. Even after stepping away from competitive golf, Whitworth did not stop serving the golf community. This is evident from her published book, ‘Kathy Whitworth’s Little Book of Golf Wisdom’. Even after her death, this serves as a living reminder and lesson from Golf’s winningest pro.

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Her partner, Bettye Odle, chose not to disclose the cause of her death. However, he did make sure to inform the world that she died among her loved ones. He said, “Kathy left this world the way she lived her life — loving, laugh and creating memories.”

Kathy surely was an icon. She was the first woman golfer to enter the million-dollar club and make career earnings of $1 million. Even though Kathy has not passed away, her memory is still alive in the hearts of every person who has ever loved golf. LPGA’s move to pay their respects to Whitworth is truly heartwarming.

Team USA’s clean sweep on Day 1 foursomes

The much-awaited Solheim Cup has finally begun leaving fans hooked to their screens, and for the fortunate ones, in their seats at the Andalucian greens. Team America made a clean sweep in the first round of foursomes today. With a score of 4-0, Team America surely made an indelible mark on the Spanish course.

Only time will tell if the coming days will see a change of luck for either of the teams. The excitement in the golf world is unparalleled. Every day unpacks as a new surprise. All in all, the Solheim Cup and its heartfelt message to honor Whitworth’s memories surely has touched fans.

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