Augusta National: Michelle Wie West, LPGA stars worthy of membership

The news of Annika Sorenstam’s Augusta National membership has the golf world buzzing. She became the seventh confirmed female to hold this hallowed honor.

With Sorenstam kicking down Augusta National’s door, it got us wondering who should be next.

Thinking about the countless LPGA stars who should be members of Augusta National, here are four worthy of this honor.

Michelle Wie West

Nancy Lopez

• Lopez is another influential lady who deserves her own green jacket. The 48-time LPGA winner was the first notable Latina golfer and paved the way for many to follow in her footsteps.

Julie Inkster

• Another big name in the LPGA realm is Juli Inkster. From helping the Americans win the Solheim Cup as a captain to her seven major titles and 31 LPGA wins, she is a staple to this sport. Not to mention, Inskter is influential in giving back to golf.

Lexi Thompson

• Thompson is still active on the LPGA and just made history on the PGA Tour by playing in the Shriners Children’s Open. Another player who is one of the most recognizable names in golf, she’s an easy choice for membership.

Some honorable mentions are Lydia Ko, Danielle Kang, Inbee Park and I’ll even put Paige Spiranac on this list for helping bring further awareness to the women’s game.

What other female golfer would you like to see as a member at Augusta National? Let us know in the comments.

Savannah Leigh Richardson is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. You can follow her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports for more golf coverage. Be sure to check out @_PlayingThrough too.