Annika Sorenstam: 10-time major winner to make LPGA return after 13 years away

“A lot has changed for the better during that time, most notably the birth of our two children. Ava and Will are excited to see ‘Mama’ play. I have to admit if this tournament hadn’t moved to our home course, it never would have crossed my mind to enter.

“But it makes sense to do so, not just because it will be a ‘home game,’ but also because my goal, schedule permitting, is to play in the U.S. Senior Women’s Open later this summer. To work toward that goal, I have realized that I need more tournament reps to have a chance to reach my potential. I’m not expecting much, but I look forward to the challenge!”

Sorenstam played her first Tour event in 1993 and in 2003, became the first woman to play in a men’s PGA Tour event in 58 years.

She won 72 LPGA Tour titles during her time on the golf course, the third most of all time. She has also been inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame.

“It’s all about opening doors. That’s one thing I’ve learned. I’ve heard from a lot of people. You can imagine a lot of opinions, a lot of comments and I hear clearly what those people say. I know they see it differently. But I listen and I embrace them all.”

She was also part of the celebrity field at the season-opening Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions last month.

World No. 4 Nelly Korda said the return of such a legend was “really cool.”