Ai Miyazato

Ai Miyazato, hailing from Japan, is a former professional golfer who has left substantial footprints in the sand traps of both the U.S.-based LPGA Tour and the LPGA of Japan Tour (JLPGA). With 25 professional victories under her belt, including 9 on the LPGA Tour and 15 on the JLPGA Tour, her prowess on the green is indisputable. Among her most notable triumphs are the "Evian Masters" in 2009 and 2011, and the "LPGA Lotte Championship" in 2012. Miyazato marked a unique milestone in golf history as the first player to attain the world number one ranking without a major win to her name.

Miyazato's successes extended beyond individual play, as she represented Japan in team competitions such as the World Cup and the International Crown. In 2005, she was part of the victorious team at the inaugural Women's World Cup of Golf. Miyazato's highest earnings year on the LPGA Tour came in 2010, when she garnered over $1.4 million and ranked 6th on the money list. This fruitful year was also marked by her achieving the top-ranked position in the Women's World Golf Rankings on three occasions.

Her retirement from professional golf in 2017 did not mark an end to her public presence, as Miyazato maintains endorsement relationships with major companies including Suntory, Bridgestone Corporation, and Japan Airlines. Despite her absence from the competitive circuit, her achievements such as the Order of Merit on the Ladies European Tour in 2011 and the William and Mousie Powell Award in 2012, continue to underline her significant contribution to the sport.

Miyazato is currently involved in promoting the next generation of Japanese golfers, notably through the Ai Miyazato International tournament. She is also active as a keynote speaker and industry expert.