World number one Annika Sorenstam became the first woman golfer in 58 years to play in an official U.S. men's PGA (Professional Golfers Association) Tour event. But the Swedish star did not play quite well enough Friday to make the halfway cut.
After a 1-over-par 71 in the opening round Thursday, Sorenstam struggled in her second round, shooting 4-over-par 74. Her two round total of 5-over-par (145) left her four shots from making the cut (141) and being able to play the final two rounds Saturday and Sunday.
Sorenstam said she was disappointed because she wanted to please the thousands of fans who came out to see her play against the men. "They wanted me to keep going and they kept screaming, 'make more birdies' [one under par]. So I mean they were there with me the whole round. You know it was an electrical feeling out there," she said. "The crowds were just fantastic. And you know I didn't want to let them down. And I didn't really perform as well as I think I can. You know I'm emotionally drained right now because I gave it all I had."
No one doubted that. Annika Sorenstam performed with grace under pressure and she said even some of the male golfers who questioned her accepting an invitation into this Colonial tournament told her they had changed their opinion. Sorenstam said she has no plans to enter another PGA Tour event and she looks forward to returning to the women's tour (LPGA) next week.
