Jiyai Shin’s domination of the Women’s British Open was an appropriate conclusion of the year’s final LPGA major as it symbolized Asia’s inexorable march in women’s golf.
On an exhausting 36-hole day that included fierce wind and sideways rain at Royal Liverpool, Shin won by nine shots, completing the first sweep of the LPGA’s four majors by players from Asia.
Asian-born players have captured the last seven women’s majors and the last eight LPGA events. Much has been written about the Asian invasion since Se Ri Pak of South Korea won the 1998 U.S. Women’s Open and inspired a generation of girls to hit the driving range. But Asians have never dominated to this extent.
Of 21 LPGA events this year, Asians have won 14, Americans have won five and Europeans one. Compare that to 1997, when Americans (24) and Europeans (11) combined to win all but four LPGA tournaments.
ESPN golf analyst Judy Rankin said it’s a trend that will continue to escalate, especially with golf coming to the Olympics in 2016.
– Kevin Dunleavy
