Annika Sorenstam to succeed Peter Dawson as IGF president

Annika Sorenstam is to take over as the new International Golf Federation president on 1 January 2021. Picture: Getty Images

Ten-time major winner Annika Sorenstam is to succeed former R&A chief executive Peter Dawson as president of the International Golf Federation Board at the beginning of next year.

The Swede, who recorded 94 victories worldwide in her career, was elected during a virtual meeting on Wednesday after Dawson intimated that he would not be seeking reappointment after holding the post for 10 years.

“It has been a great pleasure and privilege to serve as IGF President,” said Dawson, one of the best-known figures in the game.

“Golf's reinstatement to the Olympic programme was a landmark for our sport and it was a true thrill to witness our return at Rio 2016.

“Our Olympic status has been a strong catalyst for increasing cooperation and coordination between the major organisations in golf and has significantly strengthened the bonds between the IGF and our National Federations.

“My thanks go to so many people in golf and in the Olympic family for their support over the past 10 years.

“Their help and goodwill have been invaluable. I wish my successor, Annika Sorenstam, every success. The IGF could not be in better hands.”

Dawson’s “outstanding” contribution to the IGF was praised by board chairman Jay Monahan, who said: “Peter has had a distinguished career dedicated to the growth of golf and the IGF has been fortunate to have him as such a strong advocate.

“With Peter’s impending departure, we are thrilled to have someone as accomplished and universally respected as Annika Sorenstam to move into the role as IGF President.

“As a generational talent in women’s golf, Annika played a prominent role in golf’s successful Olympic bid by serving as a Global Ambassador with Jack Nicklaus and since retiring from competition, has been dedicated to promoting women’s golf at all levels through her foundation. She is the ideal person to succeed Peter in this role.”

In addition to naming Sorenstam as the new president, the board appointed PGA Tour’s Ty Votaw to another term as vice president.

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