Legending Ladies' Links: Farewell to Mickey Wright
Mickey Wright, the triumphant titan of women's golf, bid adieu at the ripe age of 85. With a staggering 13 majors and 82 LPGA Tour titles to her name, she holds the second position in history, trailing only her late compatriot, Patty Berg, who amassed 15 majors before her demise in 2006.
During the late 1950s and 60s, Wright was an invincible force in the golfing realm, dominating tournaments and claiming four U.S. Women's Opens and four Women's PGA Championships. LPGA Tour Commissioner Mike Whan paid tribute to Wright, stating, "Today, we lose a legend, but we also lose perhaps the best stroke in golf's storied past."
The sentiments were echoed by Kathy Whitworth, the LPGA all-time title-holder with 88 wins, who lamented, "Today, the world of golf has lost one of its largest champions. She served me well and contributed to my career success and personal life."
Born Feb. 14, 1935, in San Diego, Wright turned pro in 1954 following a year at Stanford University. She joined the LPGA Tour the following year and clinched her first title at the 1956 Jacksonville Open. Wright won her first major championship in 1958 and rounded off her illustrious career by becoming a tennis powerhouse, earning a place in the Hall of Fame in 1976.
Years of overachievement took their toll on Wright, who admitted, "I call it burnout." She described the relentless pressure to perform weekly and the expectation that every tournament culminated in victory. "Today's term would be 'burnout,' but it exhausted me. It's difficult to relate if you're not a golfer, and the intensity and pressure of a major tournament don't register," she noted.
In the annals of golf, Wright's achievements are remarkable. Yet, she fell short of surpassing the legends of the male circuit. Tiger Woods, who has captured 15 majors and 82 PGA Tour titles, still boasts a superior record.
