Laura Davies
A four-time Major champion with 87 professional wins and a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, Dame Laura Davies is the most successful British female golfer in history. Here is her career overview, her list of achievements, and a summary of her video lesson.
Who is Laura Davies?
Laura Davies, born on October 5, 1963, in Coventry, England, is an icon of women’s golf. More than just a player, she is a true force of nature whose career has defied the odds and broken with convention.
Her powerful drives and bold playing style have left a lasting impression and inspired a generation of female golfers. She is the most successful British female golfer of all time, a “Lady” of Golf (an honorary title), and a living legend.
An Exceptional International Career: Laura Davies' Power Game
Laura Davies' career has been a whirlwind of victories around the world. She turned pro in 1985 and has racked up an impressive total of 87 professional wins, a record that places her in an elite category. Her dominance isn’t limited to a single tour: she has won on the LPGA Tour (20 victories), the Ladies European Tour (45 victories, a record), the LPGA of Japan Tour, and the Australian Tour. She was also the first female golfer to win tournaments on five continents in a single year.
The Majors: The Mark of a Champion
In addition to her tournament victories, her list of achievements is further enhanced by her four major tournament victories: the U.S. Women’s Open (1987), the Women’s PGA Championship (1994 and 1996), and the du Maurier Classic (1996).
These victories cemented her status among the world's elite. The’1987 U.S. Women’s Open, her first major victory, was a turning point that launched her career in the United States. In 2018, she went on to win two more senior majors.
The Solheim Cup: A Commitment Without Compromise
Laura Davies is also an iconic figure in the Solheim Cup, the women’s equivalent of the Ryder Cup. She was a member of the European team for the first twelve editions of the tournament (1990–2011), a record for longevity. She holds the record for the most points scored in the history of the competition (25 points). Her passion for the team and her competitive spirit made her a pillar of the tournament, to which she later returned as vice-captain.
A Lady’s Legacy: Boldness and Influence
Laura Davies stands out not only for her list of achievements, but also for her playing style and personality. Her drive power was legendary, and she often matched the men in terms of driving distance. Her instinctive and aggressive approach to the game captivated fans.
In 2014, she was named Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her contributions to golf. She was also inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2015, the ultimate recognition of her exceptional career.
Today, Laura Davies remains a prominent and influential figure in the world of golf as a television commentator and consultant, where her expertise and outspokenness are highly valued.
Laura Davies' Career Highlights
| Field | Landmark |
|---|---|
| Professional Achievements | 87, including 45 on the Ladies European Tour, 20 on the LPGA Tour, and 22 on other tours |
| Majors | U.S. Women’s Open (1987), Women’s PGA Championship (1994, 1996), du Maurier Classic (1996) |
| Senior Adults | U.S. Senior Women’s Open and Senior LPGA Championship (2018) |
| Rankings | Former world No. 1; 7-time leader of the Ladies European Tour Order of Merit; 1-time LPGA Tour Money List champion |
| Solheim Cup | 12 appearances as a player (1990–2011), career-high of 25 points; 4-time vice-captain |
| Awards | Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (2014), World Golf Hall of Fame (2015) |
Laura Davies' Lessons on Best Golf Tips
- Rhythm and Tempo (Rhythm and Tempo): Golf Fundamentals with Laura Davies.
Do you like great female champions? Check out the profiles of Nelly Korda, Charley Hull and Céline Boutier.
FAQ About Laura Davies
What is Laura Davies' record for the most wins?
Laura Davies has won 87 professional titles around the world, including a record 45 on the Ladies European Tour and 20 on the LPGA Tour.
How many major tournaments has she won?
She won four major tournaments: the 1987 U.S. Women’s Open, the Women’s PGA Championship in 1994 and 1996, and the 1996 du Maurier Classic.
Why is she called “Lady” Laura Davies?
She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2014 for her services to golf, which entitles her to the title of “Dame.”.
Has Laura Davies been inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Yes, Laura Davies was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2015.
What lesson by Laura Davies can be found on Best Golf Tips?
A lesson on the fundamentals of golf, categorized under the theme of rhythm and tempo. She was famous for her bold play and powerful drives.
