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Annika Sorenstam has been a fixture in the game of golf for decades. Not only has she competed at the highest level with incredible success — she’s won 72 LPGA Championship events plus 10 majors — she’s also continued to be an ambassador for the sport, helping a new generation understand the game and teaching them how to play it well.
Twenty years ago this week, Sorenstam also became the first woman to play on a PGA Tour in over 50 years. Competing at Colonial, she was paired with Dean Wilson and Aaron Barber in the opening rounds, providing another remarkable chapter in golf’s rich history.
This week, Sorenstam and Wilson reconnected at the Invited Celebrity Classic, playing together again as she competes in the celebrity portion of the three-day event.
While speaking to the media, the two were able to discuss a number of different topics, with Sorenstam bringing up an experience from two decades alongside Wilson.
“I think the bond [Wilson and I] “Created during that tournament was very special,” said Sorenstam. “It was just that – because it was so new to us, and scary.
“We felt like we were in this bubble together. We’re going to talk, How are we going to do that. What will happen. I felt like the League was so much more than just players. I think it’s elegant, and I still feel that way.”
With the way the game has changed since the two played together, of course, speed of play was something I had to get Sorenstam’s opinion on. Her response was about as blunt as it gets.
“Yeah, well, I hate playing slow,” she said. “I think I believe in golf. I really am.
“There are things you can do to get ready while someone else is playing and be ready when it’s your turn. There are a lot of distractions with cell phones, and people do other things.”
So what would the greatest female golfer of all time suggest to help improve the issue of speed? Sorenstam stressed the importance of sticking to the preparation plan, which begins even before the shoot.
“I mean, I have a pre-routine, so I do my routine which is 24 seconds. If everyone has some kind of pre-shoot routine, it should be done pretty quickly.
“Just be ready when it’s your turn, and hit when you’re ready. You know, shoot if you’re out of the hole. I think it’s more — people will go crazy if you put an 8 or a 9, so pick it up and move on.”
It may sound simple, but imagine if everyone in your group followed Sorenstam’s advice; Your next round will ensure that you don’t continue.