Lydia Ko Honored as New Zealand's Youngest Dame for Golf Achievements

The 27-year-old Hall of Famer receives her country's highest civilian honor after a record-breaking year in golf.

Lydia Ko, 27, has been named a Dame in New Zealand’s New Year’s honors list, making her the youngest recipient of the title in the nation’s history.
Ko’s 2024 accomplishments include winning Olympic gold in Paris, a major championship at St. Andrews, and induction into the LPGA Hall of Fame.
The Korean-born golfer has achieved 30 professional victories, including three majors, and is recognized as New Zealand’s most successful golfer.
Ko expressed humility and initial self-doubt about accepting the honor, citing the legacy of Sir Bob Charles, the only other golfer to receive the title in New Zealand.
The honor reflects Ko’s exceptional contributions to golf and her role as a prominent figure in New Zealand’s sports history.