Annika Sorenstam’s legacy in golf is secure, but her greatest contribution to the sport may well be her role as a mentor and mother to Will McGee
As the young prodigy continues to develop his skills and confidence, he carries forward the values and lessons imparted by his legendary mother.
The 2024 PNC Championship marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in this family’s golfing journey, one that promises to inspire future generations of golfers.
With legends like Annika Sorenstam, Tiger Woods, and John Daly in the mix, coupled with the unique family-oriented format, the tournament is set to provide moments of inspiration, competition, and joy.
The PNC Championship is renowned for its fan-friendly atmosphere. From autograph sessions to interactive activities, spectators are given unique opportunities to connect with their favorite players. This inclusive approach has made the event a staple in the golfing community.
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Table of Contents
Annika Sorenstam’s Legacy in Golf
Annika Sorenstam is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers in the history of the sport.1
With 10 major championships and 72 LPGA Tour victories, her influence on the game is unparalleled.
However, a new chapter in her story is being written—not through her own achievements but through the budding career of her young son, Will McGee.
As a young prodigy, Will has already begun making waves in the golfing world, and the 2024 PNC Championship is providing him with the perfect stage.
The practice round ahead of the 2024 PNC Championship at the Ritz Carlton was anything but ordinary for Sorenstam and her son.
Will McGee, the youngest golfer participating, achieved a milestone by outdriving his mother. This moment was both humbling and exhilarating for Sorenstam, who acknowledged that she would need to improve her game to keep up with her son. Reflecting on the experience, she shared with Golfweek:
“I do have to hit it quite well to make sure I’m past him…which is fun. But it’s one of those moments that I’m excited that he will, but then part of me is, Hmm, what does that mean about my game? I’m going this way, and he’s going up, and it’s just so. I’m excited for him.”
Happening this week! https://t.co/lRecd1ULHd
— Annika Sorenstam (@ANNIKA59) December 16, 2024
A Golfer with Natural Flair
Will McGee’s talent is evident not only in his ability to challenge his legendary mother but also in his unique approach to the game.
On the sixth hole during the practice round, McGee’s excitement was palpable as he shouted that he had outdriven Sorenstam. According to his mother, Will is more of a “feel” player, preferring to experiment and adapt, unlike her methodical approach.
“For me, it’s like I’m not going to move on until I hit it perfect many, many times, and then I move on,” Sorenstam explained.
This contrast in styles highlights the generational shift in golfing techniques and philosophies, as Will carves out his own identity in the sport.
Annika Sorenstam: Choosing a Caddie
Father vs. Mother
In the same interview, Will was posed with an intriguing question: who makes a better caddie, his mother or his father, Mike McGee?
While Sorenstam’s expertise as a golfer is unmatched, Will’s response revealed a preference for his father’s support on the greens.
He explained:
“I’d say Dad is a little bit better on the greens for reading. And then whenever there’s football on the weekends, it’s like a Sunday, there’s football, and so my mom never let me check the scores or whatever, and my dad would. So it’s fun.”
This lighthearted revelation underscores the familial bonds that enrich the experience of playing in a parent-child tournament like the PNC Championship.
Balancing Academics and Athletics
As a young athlete, Will McGee faces the challenge of balancing his burgeoning golf career with his academic responsibilities.
This balance is crucial for his holistic development, ensuring that he remains grounded and well-rounded as he pursues his dreams. Annika Sorenstam’s emphasis on discipline and focus undoubtedly plays a role in helping her son navigate these dual demands.
While it is too early to predict Will McGee’s future in golf, his early achievements and natural talent suggest a promising career. The PNC Championship offers a glimpse of his potential on a larger stage.
The 2024 PNC Championship is not just a tournament; it is a celebration of family and the shared love of golf. For Annika Sorenstam and Will McGee, it represents a unique opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. Whether they win or lose, the experience of competing together is a victory in itself.
Will McGee’s Early Achievements
At just 13 years old, Will McGee has already begun to establish himself in competitive golf. Competing in the Boys 11-13 division on the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour, he has secured two tournament victories.2
These accomplishments signal his potential to follow in his mother’s footsteps while forging his own path.
Will’s ninth-place finish in the Tour Championship further demonstrates his growing consistency and skill in high-pressure situations.
The PNC Championship offers a rare opportunity for golfing legends to team up with their family members in a competitive yet celebratory environment.
For Annika Sorenstam, participating with her son adds a personal dimension to the tournament. It is not just about competing; it is about sharing the joy of the game and passing on the legacy to the next generation.
The Role of Parental Guidance in Will’s Development
- Having a parent like Annika Sorenstam can be both a blessing and a challenge. On one hand, Will McGee has access to unparalleled expertise and resources; on the other, the expectations can be daunting.
- Sorenstam, however, appears to strike a balance, fostering a supportive environment that allows her son to grow at his own pace.
- Her perspective on Will’s experimentation and creativity highlights her adaptability as a mentor.
- While her own game was built on precision and repetition, she recognizes and nurtures Will’s instinctive approach, giving him the freedom to explore and develop his unique style.
- The PNC Championship will test not only Will’s technical skills but also his ability to handle pressure. Playing alongside a legendary parent can bring its own set of challenges.
- However, Will’s achievements in junior golf suggest that he thrives in competitive environments. His confidence, as displayed during the practice round, indicates that he is ready to embrace the spotlight.
Annika Sorenstam’s Tee-Off Time for the 2024 PNC Championship
Annika Sorenstam, one of the most celebrated names in golf history, will once again grace the fairways at the 2024 PNC Championship.3
Teaming up with her son, Will McGee, Sorenstam is scheduled to tee off at 10:05 am ET on December 21. Sharing the course with them will be Team Stricker, adding an exciting dynamic to their first-round pairing.
Immediately following Sorenstam and McGee’s start, Team Daly and Team Duval are slated to tee off at 10:18 am ET. With a history of vibrant performances and fan-favorite status, these teams promise to bring excitement and energy to the championship.
Defending Champions: Team Langer’s Quest for Glory
Team Langer, comprised of Bernhard Langer and his son Jason, enters the 2024 PNC Championship as the defending champions. Their first-round tee time is set for 10:57 am ET, where they will be joined by Team Singh. All eyes will be on this pairing as they aim to defend their title over the challenging 36-hole format.
Kicking off the day’s action, Team Trevino and Team Price will take to the tee box at 9:00 am ET. These golf legends are known for their unwavering consistency and sportsmanship, ensuring an engaging start to the championship.
As the anticipation builds throughout the morning, Team Woods and Team Leonard will take their turn at 10:44 am ET. With Tiger Woods and his son Charlie in the mix, their pairing always garners significant attention, making it one of the marquee groups of the event.
Annika Sorenstam: Full List of First-Round Tee Times
For those planning to follow the action closely, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the first-round tee times for December 21 (all times in ET):
- 9:00 AM: Team Trevino, Team Price
- 9:13 AM: Team O’Meara, Team Player
- 9:26 AM: Team Faldo, Team Immelman
- 9:39 AM: Team Kuchar, Team Lehman
- 9:52 AM: Team Harrington, Team Cink
- 10:05 AM: Team Annika, Team Stricker
- 10:18 AM: Team Daly, Team Duval
- 10:31 AM: Team Korda, Team Couples
- 10:44 AM: Team Woods, Team Leonard
- 10:57 AM: Team Langer, Team Singh
The Format: A Quick Overview
The PNC Championship is a unique event featuring 20 teams, each consisting of a golf legend and a family member. Played over 36 holes, the format blends fun with competitive golf, making it a fan-favorite tournament during the holiday season.
Following the conclusion of the first round, the second day’s pairings will be determined based on the teams’ performances. This adds an element of unpredictability and excitement as teams vie for favorable tee times and leaderboard positions.
Annika Sorenstam: Partnership
Annika Sorenstam tied up with partnership with the ANNIKA Foundation and the ANNIKA Women’s All-Pro Tour.
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What Makes the PNC Championship Special?
- The PNC Championship stands out in the golfing calendar for its family-oriented nature. It offers a rare glimpse into the personal lives of golf legends, showcasing the bond they share with their family members.
- The relaxed yet competitive environment makes it a heartwarming and thrilling event for players and fans alike.
- Annika Sorenstam’s participation adds an extra layer of prestige to the championship.
- A trailblazer in women’s golf, Sorenstam’s return to the course with her son highlights the event’s inclusive and celebratory spirit.
- Her experience and skill make her a strong contender, ensuring an exciting performance.
- Success in the PNC Championship hinges on the chemistry between team members.
- From strategic shot-making to navigating the course’s challenges, the familial bond often plays a pivotal role in a team’s performance.
- As the championship progresses to its final day, the stakes will rise. Teams will need to balance strategy with execution, making every shot crucial in their quest for the title.
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