Kathy Whitworth, most victorious golfer in history, dies at 83



CNN

The most winning golfer in history, Kathy Whitworth, has died at the age of 83, the Ladies Professional Golf Association announced Sunday.

Whitworth’s longtime partner, Bettye Odle, said she died suddenly on Saturday night while celebrating Christmas Eve with family and friends.

“Kathy left this world the way she lived, full of love, laughter and making memories,” Odell said in a statement.

Odell did not disclose any details about the cause of death.

Whitworth is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time. She has 88 victories on the LPGA Tour, including six LPGA major titles. Her 88 victories are six more than Sam Snead and Tiger Woods, who hold the men’s game record.

In 1981, Whitworth became the first LPGA golfer to reach $1 million in career earnings. A year later, she was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

“Casey is a veritable champion, both on and off the course. In the short time I spent with Casey, I was truly blown away by her and the way she approaches the game and life,” said LPGA Commissioner Molly Marr Kusaman added in the statement.

“Her strength, insight and energy were evident from the moment you met her! She inspired me as a young girl and now as a commissioner, and I know she has done the same to many others. We all mourn with Betty, her family and the entire golf community.”

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