In 2004, Se Ri Pak earned the requisite points that qualified her for the World Golf Hall of Fame with her win at the Michelob ULTRA Open at Kingsmill. The only problem was she hadn’t met the Hall’s 10-year playing obligation. If there’s anything that signals a great career, becoming eligible through playing accomplishments well before the longevity requirement is it. On November 12, 2007, at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, she was inducted to the Hall.
She was the first South Korean to gain fame and fortune on the LPGA Tour. Her success on tour propelled golf to new heights in her native country and left open the door through which an onslaught of her countrywomen would follow. Although some of her South Korean counterparts have met with criticism, due largely to their perceived aloofness caused by an inability to speak English, there is little doubt that the depth and quality of play on the tour has been enhanced by their presence. A catalyst for improving the tour, Se Ri has also been instrumental in helping to remove that criticism by encouraging them to do as she did; learn the language, so that while they are in America they can fully enjoy their LPGA experience and their profession.
Pak’s induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame has also met with some opposition. Given that she’s barely 30-years-old, and qualified for entry even earlier, the difficulty level of the criteria for entry has been called into question. A glance at her career should dispel any contention that she doesn’t belong and that the entry criteria are too easy:
- 24 career victories
- 5 major championships
- 5th in lifetime earnings
- 1998 LPGA Rookie of the Year
- 2003 Vare Trophy (given to the player with the lowest scoring average)
- 2006 Heather Farr Player Award
Following a 2005 season riddled with injuries, Se Ri began a resurgence in 2006; making 18 of 23 cuts with one win. In 2007, she again entered 23 tournaments, 19 cuts made and one victory. She finished the season ranked 3rd in Greens in Regulation Putting, 9th in Top-10 finishes, 10th in Eagles, and well within the Top-25 in Birdies, Rounds Under Par, Rounds in the 60s, Scoring Average, Putting Average, and Driving Average.
She’s already proven herself to be a Hall of Famer, but there’s still several years and a lot of success to be had by Se Ri Pak. Congratulations are in order for this modern-day pioneer.
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