Michelle Wie West has left a legacy in women’s golf that will leave its impact for generations to come. The star icon has achieved so much over her 18-year-long professional career that it will forever inspire budding golfers. Being the youngest to qualify for an LPGA Tour event and the USGA amateur championship, Wie West from a young age of 10, proved that she was more than capable of handling herself on the greens.

After investing so many years in adding excitement and competition to golf, the star decided to retire from the game last year. However, she informed the golf world that she will make a last appearance in the professional arena at the 2023 US Women’s Open. An event close to the heart of the golf legend. Recently, prior to the tournament, her decision drew out a special tribute from the USGA and other golf professionals. Fans also took to the comments to show their love for West, bidding her an emotional goodbye!

Michelle Wie West receives a grand tribute prior to the 78th US Women’s Open

Looking back at the storied career of Michelle Wie West, one is sure to remember the 2014 US Women’s Open which crowned her the winner. Even though it was the only time West won a major, for years she has been the face of women’s golf. Hence, it made complete sense for the US Women’s Open (USGA) to pay tribute to the legend as she prepares for her last golf tournament.

Per the same, an emotional video featured all the moments of Wie West on the greens. The intensity of seeing West grow from a young professional into a mature golfer even brought tears to the eyes of the icon herself. She clearly could not hold back her emotions as she commented, “Bombarded with feelings and emotions“. Precisely explaining how beautiful the video was.

Apart from the video, a small get-together was also hosted which allowed the golfer to meet and greet some old and new friends. At the start of the celebration, she mentioned what the game of golf meant to her. She expressed that it has been an “Incredible journey,” a complete circle of highs and lows.

However, the best part of golf for the LPGA Tour icon has been the connections she has made over the years. She believed that it is a sport that can connect anyone at any stage of their lives with its beauty. Irrespective, the star was proud of what she has achieved. She encouraged young girls to adopt a “bold” approach and never shy away from committing mistakes.

Numerous other golf professionals also acknowledged the exemplary character of West. Thus, in the video presented to the 33-year-old, other golfers (male and female) came forward with a special message for the star.

Professional golf icons bestow their good wishes and praises upon West

Michelle Wie West took a trip down memory lane that also featured some of the professionals she has worked with or been close to. In context to this, the golf icon has recently developed a bond with Rose Zhang, the rising prodigy. Hence, it was not surprising at all to see her on the screen and praise the senior athlete for what she has been able to accomplish.

Zhang mentioned how West has been an inspiration for many young people. Thus, she thanked her for being a light to female golf. Succeeding her on the screen was the PGA Tour star, Justin Thomas. Stressing on similar lines and accepting that West has been a role model for many in golf, Thomas added, “Best of luck”.

A couple of other LPGA Tour professionals also mentioned how “little girls look up to her,” and how she motivates everyone around her. While these intense comments evoked raw emotions in the golfer and she became teary-eyed, Rickie Fowler‘s next words drew out a laugh from West.

Fowler said, “Michelle, you know, I love you“. He continued his statement by joking about how they would have been each other’s backup, if not for the fact they have both found their happiness in their individual partners. Fowler concluded by adding, “Miss you. Hope to see you soon.”

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Apart from golf professionals, her husband Jonnie West also appreciated Michelle’s fierce, bold, yet compassionate and loving personality. Additionally, golf enthusiasts chimed in to showcase their love and respect for the LPGA Tour legend.

Fans shower Michelle Wie with utmost love and affection

Wie West’s brilliant contribution to the game naturally evoked a reaction from golf lovers all around the world. This could be seen in the latest USGA Instagram post. Where the page was all praises for the golf veteran. Her admirers couldn’t help but chime in with the same.

One of the fans commented on the star being an example to look up to for all and wrote, “Such a great role model from when she was a kid…so proud of her!” Another joined in by adding, “You’ve been a great ambassador for the game of golf, Michelle. God bless you and your family.” 

It was not just Instagram that saw all the love coming in for the golfer. The Twitter handles equally joined it to share their emotions on the golfer’s journey.

The love and admiration for her golfing skills continued to pour in, with an account commenting, “Man Wiezy used to crush the driver…how many guys can hit it 300 + yards and shoot a 64 at the age of 10. She changed womens golf.”

Overall, it sure seems that her presence on the greens will be dearly missed. But the attachment to the game will continue in other forms of exploring business ventures and organizing varied tournaments.

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What do you think of Michelle Wie West’s legacy? Do let us know in the comments below.