Full Breakdown
Annika Sorenstam Highlights Caitlin Clark’s Impact on Women’s Golf
7/10/2026, 1:02:17 PM
Background: Sorenstam’s Role and the Annika Driven by Gainbridge Tournament
Ten-time LPGA major winner Annika Sorenstam hosts the Annika Driven by Gainbridge tournament, which includes a pro-am round that draws both professional golfers and celebrity participants. Sorenstam, a 72-win LPGA veteran, uses the event to promote the Annika Foundation’s mission of empowering young women through golf.
Impact on Fans and Media
Since WNBA star Caitlin Clark began appearing at the pro-am, tournament organizers have observed a noticeable shift in the crowd. Early-morning lines of young girls holding basketballs and hats, as well as first-time LPGA attendees, have gathered to watch Clark tee off. Media coverage, website traffic, and social-media engagement have risen, prompting the Golf Channel to allocate additional airtime to Clark’s rounds. Sorenstam notes that Clark’s “relatability, athleticism, and genuine love for golf” make her an effective crossover ambassador, drawing a “new demographic” to the sport.
Official Statements & Responses
Sorenstam told Fox News Digital that Clark’s popularity translates into higher attendance and autograph demand at the pro-am, creating an “extra buzz” on the course. She added that Clark’s athletic background suggests she could compete well in the American Century Championship, a celebrity golf tournament she will enter. Sorenstam also emphasized the broader goal of using golf to develop life skills for young women, describing the progress of women’s golf as “rewarding and satisfying.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “She's obviously very popular. She brings a new demographic to the game, and when she's there playing the pro-am, I mean we have a lot of people attending and wanting her autograph. Following her and every shot, and she's just great for women's sports, and we love to have her a part of it,” — Annika Sorenstam
- “I think she would do quite well (at the American Century Championship.) I mean, she's quite an athlete, as you know. That's kind of stating the obvious. But she loves golf. She's played golf for many years, and I know every time she gets a chance, she goes to the course,” — Annika Sorenstam
- “That’s kind of stating the obvious. But she loves golf. She’s played golf for many years, and I know every time she gets a chance, she goes to the course.” — Annika Sorenstam
- “CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP "We try to empower and advance young women through the game of golf, but also in life, different life skills, and it's been really rewarding and satisfying to see how far women's golf has come and how many of these young women are pursuing their dreams.” — Annika Sorenstam
