Swedish golfing legend Annika Sorenstam shared her elation on Wednesday after receiving an invitation to join the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, marking it as one of the most joyous days in her illustrious golfing career.

Annika Sorenstam, a remarkable figure with ten major championships under her belt and a remarkable tally of 90 worldwide titles, has made history by becoming the very first LPGA professional to attain membership at the exclusive Augusta National Golf Club, located in Augusta, Georgia. This revered club has been the revered host of the Masters since its inception in 1934. Follow your favourite golf team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet, one of the best golf betting sites.

The Augusta National Golf Club made waves in 2012 when it admitted its first female members, former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and financier Darla Moore. This pivotal step came after enduring years of criticism due to its previous male-only status. The inclusion of Annika Sorenstam, a luminous figure in the world of golf, further solidifies the club’s commitment to inclusivity.

Addressing reporters in anticipation of her eponymous event on the LPGA Tour scheduled to take place next week in Belleair, Florida, Sorenstam expressed her profound sense of honor, coupled with her candid surprise. She declared, “I mean what can I say? I’m extremely honored. It was a surprise, I must say that. And I was so excited, you know, one of the most happiest days of my golf life.”

During a teleconference alongside tennis icon Billie Jean King and motorsport trailblazer Lyn St. James, Annika Sorenstam discussed the forthcoming “Parity Week by Gainbridge,” a celebration dedicated to these three sporting luminaries and the events surrounding it.

At the age of 53, Annika Sorenstam, a World Golf Hall of Fame inductee since 2003, now holds membership in one of the most influential golf clubs in the world. However, she remains humble and cautious about the impact she might have, saying, “It’s super new so I am a total rookie and I’m am just learning the ropes. I am not really sure where this will lead but I am thrilled and excited about the opportunity not just to play the course but just to get to know the members.”

Billie Jean King, on the other hand, was more forthright about her hopes for Sorenstam at Augusta National, emphasizing the desire for a professional women’s tournament. King stated, “I know they have the amateur girls but I want to see a (women’s) pro tournament and so anyway I hope that happens and I think you will make a big difference. You stand for so much and people listen to you and appreciate you.”

Annika Sorenstam’s inclusion at Augusta National is not just a personal achievement but a significant stride forward in breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity in the world of golf. The future holds the promise of further transformation and opportunity for women in the sport. Get the latest updates from the world of golf only on Nextbet Sports.