Introduction
Golf has long been seen as a sport rooted in tradition, but in 2025, a new generation of female golfers is flipping that script. From LPGA stars dominating on the course to social media influencers racking up millions of followers—and dollars—these women are reshaping the game in ways we’ve never seen before.
Whether they’re smashing drives down the fairway, pulling off jaw-dropping trick shots, or advocating for change, they’re proving that golf isn’t just a boys’ club anymore.
But while their impact is undeniable, there’s still a glaring issue that casts a shadow over their achievements: the gender pay gap. Despite rising viewership and increasing global interest, LPGA prize money still lags far behind the men’s game.
Even more surprising?
Some influencers are earning more than seasoned pros, thanks to diversified income streams like sponsorships, YouTube, and brand partnerships.
In this article, we’ll spotlight 10 female golfers who are not only changing how the game is played but also how it’s perceived. From Nelly Korda’s on-course dominance to Paige Spiranac’s online empire, these women are pushing boundaries, breaking records, and challenging the status quo.
Let’s meet the game changers. 🏌️♀️🔥
The Game Changers – Competitive Trailblazers (LPGA Stars)
1. Nelly Korda
When it comes to dominating the women’s game, Nelly Korda is in a league of her own. The world No. 1 and 2021 KPMG Women’s PGA Champion has made a habit of turning up at big events and leaving with hardware. With her effortless swing, powerful drives, and clutch putting, Korda isn’t just playing the game—she’s owning it. Oh, and let’s not forget her Olympic gold medal and her role as a three-time Solheim Cup star. Talk about an all-around powerhouse.
But Korda’s influence extends far beyond the leaderboard. With $12 million+ in annual earnings from LPGA wins (over $12.5M in career earnings) and lucrative sponsorships from brands like TaylorMade and Rolex, she’s one of the highest-paid players in the sport. Her apparel deals also keep her front and center in the world of golf fashion, making her not just a top athlete but also a marketing juggernaut.
And while Korda is raking in the wins and the cash, she’s also using her platform to advocate for youth fitness and gender equality in sports. She’s vocal about the challenges women face in golf, especially when it comes to media coverage and prize money disparities. For Korda, it’s not just about being the best—it’s about paving the way for the next generation of female golfers.
With her game at its peak and her influence growing off the course, Nelly Korda is redefining what it means to be a golf superstar in 2025.
2. Lydia Ko
If there’s a blueprint for early success in golf, Lydia Ko practically wrote it. By the time she was 17, Ko had already snagged multiple LPGA titles and become the youngest player—male or female—to reach world No. 1. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s not just a dominant force on the course but a Hall of Famer and global ambassador for the sport.
Ko’s resume speaks for itself: Olympic gold medalist, defending HGV Tournament of Champions winner, and a player whose calm, calculated style has won her fans around the world. Her success has made her one of the highest earners in women’s golf, pulling in $10 million+ annually from tournament wins (with $17M+ in career earnings), endorsements from brands like CJ Group and BMW, and lucrative appearance fees for global events.
But Lydia Ko isn’t just about trophies and endorsements. She’s become a vocal advocate for equal media coverage and gender pay equality in golf. Despite her monumental achievements, Ko has often pointed out the disparity in attention between male and female golfers—and she’s not afraid to call it out. While her male counterparts rake in bigger purses and more airtime, Ko continues to push for a level playing field both in earnings and recognition.
Whether she’s dominating on the green or using her voice to highlight the sport’s inequities, Lydia Ko is proving that being a champion goes beyond what happens between the ropes.
3. A Lim Kim
While some golfers make waves with flashy wins, A Lim Kim has quietly climbed the ranks with a game built on precision and consistency. Known for her pinpoint iron play and calm demeanor under pressure, Kim is proving that you don’t need a flashy persona to dominate on the course. In 2025, she’s leading the HGV Tournament of Champions at -15 after 54 holes, solidifying her reputation as one of the LPGA’s most formidable players.
Though she isn’t raking in the same headlines as some of her peers, Kim’s results speak for themselves. She pulls in over $2 million annually from LPGA earnings and high-profile Korean sponsorships with brands like Hyundai and Shinhan Bank. Her steady rise has made her a national icon in South Korea, where golf continues to thrive, and her success has helped fuel the globalization of women’s golf.
While Kim tends to let her clubs do the talking, her presence on the leaderboard is a constant reminder that precision and patience are just as powerful as raw power. As she continues to rise, she’s quietly reshaping the narrative around what it takes to succeed in women’s golf.
4. Linn Grant
Linn Grant isn’t just making waves—she’s challenging the very norms of women’s golf. The Swedish phenom has burst onto the U.S. golf scene, consistently contending in tournaments where European players have traditionally struggled to make a mark. Currently sitting at -12 at the HGV Tournament of Champions, Grant is proving that European talent isn’t just keeping up—it’s setting the pace.
Grant’s game is a blend of power and finesse, with a fearless approach that’s refreshing in a sport often defined by caution. But it’s not just her performance that’s turning heads; it’s the way she’s breaking down barriers. As one of the few European players to consistently challenge in U.S. events, she’s helping to bridge the gap between the LPGA and the global golf community.
When it comes to earnings, Grant is doing just fine, pulling in over $1.5 million annually from tournament wins and partnerships with brands like Callaway and H&M. But beyond the money, her influence is about representation—showing that international players can dominate on the biggest stages and inspire a new generation of golfers worldwide.
Whether she’s sinking birdie putts or pushing for more global visibility in the women’s game, Linn Grant is a force to be reckoned with—and she’s only just getting started.
5. Jin Young Ko
When you think of consistency in women’s golf, Jin Young Ko is the first name that comes to mind. The former world No. 1 has built a career on mental toughness and an unshakable focus that sets her apart from the competition. While others might falter under pressure, Ko thrives, turning high-stakes moments into opportunities to showcase her surgical precision and calm demeanor.
Ko’s career is nothing short of impressive. With over $8 million in career earnings, she’s not only a fixture at the top of the leaderboard but also a role model for aspiring golfers around the world. Her sponsorships with major brands like LG Electronics and KB Financial reflect her status as one of the sport’s most respected and reliable players.
But Ko’s impact isn’t limited to her trophy collection. She’s become a symbol of grit and perseverance, inspiring young golfers to focus on the mental side of the game. In a sport where emotions can easily derail even the best players, Ko’s unwavering composure is a lesson in how to handle both success and setbacks with grace.
As she continues to compete at the highest level, Jin Young Ko remains a shining example of what it means to be a champion—not just in skill, but in character.
Social Media Influencers
6. Paige Spiranac
When it comes to golf influencers, Paige Spiranac is the name that comes to mind. With 3.9 million Instagram followers, she’s the most-followed golf personality on social media, blending jaw-dropping trick shots with candid takes on the game’s traditions. But Spiranac’s rise to fame hasn’t been without controversy—while some celebrate her for making golf more accessible, others criticize her for prioritizing aesthetics over athletic achievements. Love her or hate her, there’s no denying she’s changed the conversation around golf.
Spiranac’s business savvy is just as sharp as her short game. She earns over $5 million annually through sponsorships with brands like PointsBet and Mondays Apparel, in addition to revenue from her podcast and YouTube channel. While many LPGA pros are grinding on tour for smaller purses, Spiranac’s diversified income streams highlight an interesting shift: influence can be just as lucrative as performance in today’s golf landscape.
Beyond the flashy content, Spiranac has used her platform to advocate for faster pace of play and more inclusive golf culture. She’s outspoken about the barriers that keep people—especially women and younger players—out of the game, and she’s not afraid to challenge outdated norms in the sport.
Paige Spiranac might not be lifting trophies on tour, but she’s definitely winning when it comes to reshaping golf’s image in the digital age.
7. Tisha Alyn
Tisha Alyn is bringing a whole new vibe to the golf world—one that’s vibrant, inclusive, and unapologetically fun. A former pro golfer turned influencer, Tisha has carved out her own space by blending golf content with dance, creating viral videos that have captured the attention of Gen Z and beyond. But she’s not just here for the trick shots and smooth moves; Tisha is using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in a sport that’s often been slow to embrace diversity.
As Topgolf’s first female ambassador, Tisha has helped make golf more approachable for younger and more diverse audiences. Her Instagram is packed with creative content that showcases her skills while keeping things lighthearted and entertaining. But don’t let the fun fool you—Tisha is also a savvy businesswoman. With sponsorships from big brands like Fitbit and Topgolf, she’s pulling in over $1 million annually through brand deals and social media partnerships.
Tisha’s influence goes beyond just numbers. By openly sharing her experiences as an LGBTQ+ golfer, she’s creating a space where more people feel welcome in the game. She’s not just changing how golf looks on social media—she’s changing who feels like they belong on the course.
In a sport rooted in tradition, Tisha Alyn is proof that golf’s future is brighter, bolder, and a whole lot more inclusive.
8. Tania Tare
If there’s a queen of golf trick shots, it’s Tania Tare. The New Zealand-born golfer has turned creative shot-making into an art form, captivating over 1 million followers with jaw-dropping stunts that blend athleticism with a touch of magic. From bouncing balls off yoga mats to orchestrating elaborate slow-motion cup shots, Tare’s content is a visual feast that’s made her one of the most recognizable faces in golf social media.
But Tare’s influence isn’t just about viral videos—it’s about how she’s changing the perception of the sport. By showcasing the fun, playful side of golf, she’s helping to broaden its appeal beyond traditional players and attract a younger, more diverse audience. Her collaborations with brands like PXG and Titleist have not only boosted her profile but also brought a fresh, dynamic energy to golf marketing.
When it comes to earnings, Tare is doing more than just fine. She pulls in over $800K annually from sponsorships and YouTube monetization, proving that there’s real money to be made in the world of golf content creation. But beyond the financial success, her real impact lies in how she’s popularized golf as a form of entertainment—making it feel less exclusive and a whole lot more fun.
In a world where golf can sometimes take itself a little too seriously, Tania Tare is here to remind us that the game is meant to be enjoyed.
9. Sabrina Andolpho
Sabrina Andolpho is redefining what it means to be a golfer by blending fitness, travel, and lifestyle into her game. A former standout at Barry University and Brazilian tournament winner, Sabrina has seamlessly transitioned from competitive golf to becoming a digital influencer who inspires women to embrace the sport’s athletic side. Her content isn’t just about perfecting your swing—it’s about showing how golf fits into a healthy, active lifestyle.
Andolpho’s course vlogs are as much about the scenery and experience as they are about the scorecard. Whether she’s hitting the gym, showcasing her favorite golf workouts, or traveling to picturesque courses, she’s built a brand that appeals to both golf enthusiasts and fitness fans alike. This unique crossover has helped her attract a broad audience, proving that golf is as much about wellness and adventure as it is about competition.
On the business front, Sabrina’s pulling in over $500K annually through apparel collaborations and travel sponsorships. Brands love her ability to merge golf and lifestyle content, making the sport feel more accessible and exciting to a new generation of players, especially women who might have previously felt sidelined in the golf world.
By showing that golf is more than just a game—it’s a lifestyle—Sabrina Andolpho is helping to reshape how the sport is perceived, one swing (and squat) at a time.
10. Lucy Robson
Lucy Robson is the perfect example of how golf can be both approachable and stylish. The British-American influencer has made a name for herself by blending golf tutorials with lifestyle content, striking a balance between instruction and entertainment that resonates with both seasoned golfers and complete beginners. Her laid-back, relatable style has helped demystify the game, making it feel less intimidating for newcomers.
With a growing online presence, Lucy’s content focuses on making golf accessible to everyone. Whether she’s sharing quick tips for perfecting your swing or offering a behind-the-scenes look at her daily life, Robson’s authenticity has earned her a loyal following. She doesn’t just teach the game—she lives it, showing her audience how golf can be woven into everyday life.
On the financial side, Lucy is doing quite well, earning over $600K annually through partnerships with brands like Bushnell Golf and Adidas. Her ability to merge golf instruction with lifestyle branding makes her a favorite for companies looking to reach a younger, more diverse audience. By positioning herself at the intersection of golf and lifestyle, Robson is proving that the future of golf isn’t just on the course—it’s online, too.
Lucy Robson is part of a new wave of influencers who are making golf feel fresh, fun, and far less stuffy than its traditional image.
The Gender Pay Gap in Golf: A Battle Far from Over
While the women we’ve highlighted are changing the game on and off the course, there’s one stubborn obstacle they all face: the gender pay gap. Despite growing popularity and record-breaking performances, female golfers are still fighting for equal recognition and compensation in a sport where the numbers tell a frustrating story.
Let’s start with the hard facts. In 2025, the LPGA’s total prize fund stands at $120 million. Sounds impressive, right? Until you compare it to the PGA Tour’s staggering $580 million purse. That’s nearly five times the prize money, despite the fact that LPGA viewership is on the rise and women’s golf continues to attract global audiences. The disparity isn’t just about the dollars—it’s about what those dollars represent: value and visibility.
Even more striking is the fact that influencers like Paige Spiranac are earning more than many LPGA pros. Spiranac pulls in over $5 million annually from sponsorships, media appearances, and her massive social media following. Meanwhile, the average LPGA player earns around $1.5 million—and that’s if they’re consistently performing at the top of their game. This raises a provocative question: Is social media influence more valuable than competitive excellence in today’s golf landscape?
Players like Lydia Ko and Nelly Korda aren’t staying silent about this imbalance. Ko has been especially vocal, calling out the lack of media coverage for women’s tournaments and pushing for more equal representation in the sport. Meanwhile, Korda continues to dominate on the course while advocating for gender equality in sports, using her platform to highlight the need for change.
But it’s not just about the professionals. The gender pay gap extends beyond prize money to endorsement deals, sponsorship opportunities, and even media exposure. While male golfers secure multi-million-dollar endorsements, female players often have to fight twice as hard for half the recognition.
Golf has come a long way, but when it comes to pay equity, there’s still a long road ahead. Until the sport truly values female athletes on par with their male counterparts, this battle isn’t over.
Conclusion
From dominating the LPGA Tour to amassing millions of followers on social media, these 10 female golfers are doing more than just playing the game—they’re redefining it. Whether it’s Nelly Korda crushing drives and advocating for gender equality, or Paige Spiranac turning golf into a digital empire, these women are proving that there’s more than one way to leave a mark on the sport.
But while their influence is undeniable, the challenges they face—especially when it comes to the gender pay gap—serve as a stark reminder that golf still has a long way to go. The fact that influencers can out-earn seasoned pros highlights not just the power of personal branding, but also the need for the sport to better support its female athletes on the course.
As these women continue to break barriers, the question remains: Is the future of golf being shaped more by influencers or professional players? And perhaps more importantly—when will the sport finally offer equal recognition and compensation for the women who are driving its evolution?
One thing’s for sure: whether they’re making headlines with tournament wins or viral videos, these game changers are here to stay. And golf? It’s better for it.