In 2008, Annika Sorenstam became just the second ambassador in the history of the USGA. The first was Arnold Palmer, who has been the honorary chairman of the USGA Members program since its launch in 1975.
As ambassador, Sorenstam provides an important connection between the public and the USGA and makes the game more relevant and more accessible to all golfers of all skill levels.
Sorenstam has made several important contributions to the USGA and its activities and missions. She offered a behind-the-scenes look into what it takes to compete in the national championship at the 2008 U.S. Women’s Open, and was also the honorary chairman of the 2011 U.S. Women’s Open, where she hosted a special clinic at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs.
In addition to promoting the U.S. Women’s Open, which she won three times, Sorenstam inspired tomorrow’s stars when she spoke at the players’ dinner at the jointly held U.S. Junior Amateur and U.S. Girls’ Junior in 2009. She also has educated golfers by taping a series of “Play by the Rules” videos.