Kathy Whitworth – the professional golfer with the most trophies – has died aged 83, America’s Ladies Professional Golf Association has said.
“Her 88 LPGA victories are the most ever on a professional tour,” it said.
The Texan took six more trophies than her rival Mary Kathryn “Mickey” Wright, as well as men’s game joint record-holders Sam Snead and Tiger Woods.
She died suddenly on Saturday night while celebrating Christmas Eve with family and friends, her partner said.
“Kathy left this world the way she lived her life, loving, laughing and creating memories,” said Bettye Odle without providing any further details.
Whitworth won six majors during her decades-long career, and came very close, being a runner-up in 1971, to winning the US Women’s Open – the most prestigious trophy.
In 1981, she became the first woman to earn $1m (£829,000) on the LPGA tour.