The World Golf Foundation Board of Directors has voted to make several changes to the World Golf Hall of Fame eligibility and Induction process in an effort to ensure the game’s greats from around the world are actively recognised and celebrated.
Changes to the eligibility include lowering the age of a Male or Female Competitor from 50 to 45 years of age or three years retired from the game. A player will be eligible for Induction provided he or she turns 45 the year of the Induction Ceremony. Additional changes include elimination of the Veterans category and replacing ‘Lifetime Achievement’ recognition with ‘Contributor’.
“Recognising the game’s greatest players and contributors is an important endeavour and one our sport takes very seriously,” said Jay Monahan, World Golf Foundation Board Chairman and PGA Tour Commissioner. “We are committed to regularly evaluating the selection process to ensure we approach it with both historical context and the future in mind. I believe these changes benefit the Hall of Fame Members, fans across the world and the institution.”
The Nominating and Selection Committees have expanded to include 18 members of the media. Hall of Famers Beth Daniel, Nick Price and Curtis Strange will join Annika Sorenstam as Co-Chairs on the Selection Committee.
“Being inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame was one of the defining moments of my career, and I am honoured to serve on the Selection Committee,” said Sorenstam. “These changes are positive for the Hall of Fame, and I am pleased that future members can enjoy the recognition and celebration of their achievements beginning at age 45.”
Greg McLaughlin, CEO of the World Golf Foundation, said: “We believe these changes will enhance the Hall of Fame in many ways and bring greater attention to the most deserving players at a time in their careers when they are still competing at the highest level. We look forward to the future of the Hall of Fame as we ensure it remains a meaningful way to recognise the game’s greats.”
The Nominating and Selection Committees will meet early this year to determine the World Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2021. The 2021 Induction Ceremony date, location and class will be announced at a later date.
