Despite repeated setbacks in her golf career, causing her to play mere five LPGA Tour events in 2019, Michelle Wie West's love for the game remained undiminished. This stark contrast between her professional challenges and personal happiness, including her marriage to Golden State Warriors' team president Jonny West and the arrival of their daughter Makenna, sparked a desire to return to the sport.
"It completely changed my perspective", Wie West admitted in an interview, as the appearance of her baby girl altered everything, including her relationship with golf. This newfound ambition wasn't just for herself, but also to set a good example for her daughter and share her passion for the game.
The unpredictable nature of her post-motherhood life only intensified her yearning to get back to the greens. Despite being stubborn about her decision, her upcoming daughter's schedule forced her to withdraw from the US Women's Open this week, leaving a gap in the US golf calendar.
The struggle of women golfers to gain recognition and attract mainstream attention is nothing new. With 40% of all sports participants being women, they make up only 4% of sports media coverage, causing major tournaments to suffer from low viewership and primetime TV slot lackluster ratings.
Yet, Wie West remains optimistic about the future of women's golf, viewing direct competition with the PGA Tour as necessary to achieve desired heights. She acknowledged the challenges, stating that they were often in "direct competition with the PGA Tour, and they have a strong product" but believed increased exposure would change the narrative.
Wie West's approach to golf evolution is not limited to the greens. Inspired by an early fascination with skulls, she has gained recognition for her dark and grisly paintings featuring lonely figures and eerie skulls while also working as a moderator for golf tournaments.
Furthermore, Wie West was appointed as an ambassador for the USGA's "Women to Watch" campaign with the aim of highlighting the remarkable female athletes participating in women's championship events.
Wie's path to success in golf was markedly different from many of her contemporaries. Growing up in an environment with minimal social media exposure allowed her to avoid the extensive media attention that often comes with fame.
Wie West's transformation from child prodigy to motherhood has expanded her horizons beyond professional golf, leading her to explore newer avenues in painting and moderating.
[1] Korkola, A. (2021, April 28). Michelle Wie West's Reprieve: From Child Prodigy to Motherhood. [Retrieved February 26, 2023], from .
- Michelle Wie West retired from professional golf in 2023, with motherhood and family becoming her primary focus.
- Her decision to retire was met with support from fellow golfers.
- Wie West celebrated her son Jagger's 100-day milestone in a traditional Korean style.
- Despite her love for the game, family and personal life now take precedence in her priorities.
