Annika Sorenstam is New USGA Ambassador

I'm not sure about the timing of this announcement, or even the meaning of this role, but I believe this is really the first relationship of its kind between the USGA and a specific golfer.

Three-time United States Women’s Open champion and World Golf and LPGA Hall-of-Fame member AnnikaSorenstam has been named a United States Golf Association Ambassador, according to USGA President JimVernon.

“Annika has earned a rare place in golf’s history, and we are very privileged to bring her aboard the USGA,” said Vernon. “As a USGA Ambassador, Annika will help us make the game more accessible and more relevant to players of all skill levels. She’ll provide key help in many ways, and we will begin the relationship through an innovative webcast from this year’s U.S. Women’s Open.”

The relationship sounds very amorphous but that they wanted to get her on board now, as she is transitioning from playing competitor to golf industry icon. Here are some of the things she will definitely do with the organization:

In addition to robust online content at this year’s Women’s Open, Sorenstam will appear on the USGA’s Web site (www.usga.org) and will highlight the Rules of Golf. MikeDavis, the USGA’s Senior Director of Rules and Competitions, added: “It makes perfect sense as Annika has attended a USGA Rules Seminar and has always displayed a passion for learning and mastering the Rules of Golf.” Sorenstam will also work with the USGA in a variety of ways to grow the game with a focus on growth in the women’s game and junior participation.

Some cool news for LPGA fans, though:

Sorenstam’s first round at the championship, to be held at Interlachen Country Club in Edina, Minn., (June 26-29), will be streamed live on the USGA’s U.S. Women’s Open championship web site (www.uswomensopen.com), a first in the world of women’s golf. “Users will be able to view every shot that she and the other players in her grouping make during her first round on June 26,” added Vernon.

On Friday of the championship, June 27, www.uswomensopen.com will stream video featuring the traditional grouping of defending U.S. Women’s Open champion CristieKerr, Women’s British Open champion LorenaOchoa and U.S. Women’s Amateur champion MariaUribe. The 2008 U.S. Women’s Open will be the first international women’s golf event to feature this fan-friendly option.