Jacksonville: Annika Sorenstam will retire after the season, ending a career with 72 tournaments win on the US LPGA Tour and becoming the first woman in 50 years to play against men on the US PGA Tour.

"I think I have achieved more than I ever thought I could. I have given it all, and it's been full," she said during a press conference yesterday at the Sybase Classic in Clifton, New Jerse.

The 37-year-old Sorenstam has hinted at retirement the past several seasons, saying she wanted to devote more time to her growing business and to start a family. She is engaged to Mike McGee, son of former US tour golfer Jerry McGee.

"This would be very much like Annika to get on top and then quit,"said Rudy Rakin, a US LPGA Hall of Fame member and televising analyst.

Sorenstam said her final event would be the Dubai Ladies Master after the American tour season ends.

"I am leaving the game on my terms," she said.

The decision comes two days after Sorenstam won the Michelob Ultra Open at Kingsill by seven shots for the third victory of the season and first against a field that included Loena Ochoa. It was a sign that Sorenstam had fully recovered from injures and was returning to the form that made her the best in women's golf.

"I just hope to continue this momentum," Sorenstam said after winning. I am feeling it. It's turning around, and so can t wait for the next month or so. I am excited."
Source : PTI