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Babe Didrikson Zaharias

American Athlete

Team

Retired

DOB

June 26, 1911

Height / Weight

170 cm (5 ft 7 in) / 68 kg (150 lbs)

Achievements

10 LPGA major championships

Summary

Babe Didrikson Zaharias, born on June 26, 1911, in Port Arthur, Texas, was an American athlete who excelled in golf, basketball, and track and field. She is widely considered as one of the greatest female athletes of all time. Zaharias began her career in track and field before transitioning to professional golf, where she won numerous titles and established multiple records.

Zaharias was known for her exceptional athleticism, versatility, and competitive spirit. She has won numerous awards and holds numerous records in the sports she participated in.

Off the field, Zaharias was also recognized for her philanthropic efforts and influence, significantly contributing to charitable causes and inspiring generations of female athletes worldwide.

Career

Track and Field

  • Youth and Early Career: Zaharias excelled in track and field during her high school years. She gained national recognition when she won multiple events at the 1932 AAU Championships.

Basketball

  • Early Success: Zaharias played on a women's basketball team that won the AAU Basketball Championship in 1931.

Golf

  • Record-breaking Career: Zaharias took up golf in 1935 and quickly demonstrated her prowess in the sport. She won numerous titles, including 10 LPGA major championships, and was a founding member of the LPGA.
    Individual Awards: Zaharias was twice named the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year.
International Career

Olympics

  • Debut: Zaharias made her Olympic debut in 1932.

Achievements:

  • 1932 Summer Olympics: Zaharias won two gold medals and one silver medal in track and field events.
Style of Play
  • Position: Zaharias competed in multiple sports, but she is best known for her achievements in golf.
  • Skills: Known for her exceptional athleticism, versatility, and competitive spirit. Zaharias was celebrated for her powerful shots and her ability to perform under pressure.
Personal Life
  • Family: Zaharias was married to professional wrestler George Zaharias. They had no children.
  • Philanthropy: Zaharias was involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to cancer research and other charitable causes.
Legacy
  • Babe Didrikson Zaharias is celebrated not only for her extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for her trailblazing efforts in women's sports. Her impact on sports and her status as an icon extend beyond the playing field, inspiring generations of female athletes around the world.
Awards and Recognition

World Golf Hall of Fame:

  • Inducted in 1951

Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year:

  • Won the award in 1932, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1950, and 1954

U.S. Women's Open:

  • Winner in 1948, 1950, and 1954

Olympic Medals:

  • Won two gold medals and one silver medal in the 1932 Summer Olympics
References

Books

  • Van Natta, D. (2014) Wonder Girl: The Magnificent Sporting Life of Babe Didrikson Zaharias. New York: Little, Brown and Company.
  • Cayleff, S. E. (1995) Babe: The Life and Legend of Babe Didrikson Zaharias. Urbana: University of Illinois Press.

Websites

Articles

Documentaries

  • Babe (1995): Directed by Howard Zieff. This biographical drama provides a detailed look at Zaharias’s life and career.
  • ESPN Documentaries: Various documentaries and features on Babe Didrikson Zaharias, covering different aspects of her career. Available at: https://www.espn.com
Full name
Mildred Ella 'Babe' Didrikson Zaharias
Born
1911-06-26
Place of birth
Port Arthur, Texas, United States
Position(s)
Golfer, Basketball player, Baseball player
Current team
Retired
Senior career
1930-1956 Professional Athlete
International career
1932-1932 Olympic Games
Social Media
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