Is Golf Still a Man's Game in India?

The perks of playing Golf are many. Besides fitness, golf is a perfect breeding ground for socialisation and networking. Today women in India are not just playing golf as their passtime but also representing the country at a global level.

Golf in India today…

Over the years there has gradually been an increase in the number of women golf events. Also, the infrastructure for the game is fast improving in the country. The country boasts a number of international standard golf courses like the Manesar Golf Club, DLF Golf course, etc. in the cities like Gurgaon. Gradually women golfers in India are coming to the forefront.

Nalini Singh Siwach's the Hero-DLF GCC Trophy winner believes that places in India, especially Gurgaon extend several facilities that encourage women to participate in the game.  Websites like GolfLan are also making the game more accessible, by providing a convenient way of booking your golf session online! Here are a few professional Indian female golfers who are making a significant contribution to the game of Golf in India today.

Aditi Ashok: The 18-year-old Bangalorean made India proud when she represented the country at the Rio Olympics 2016.  She is the only women from India to make it to the top 500 in the Official Women’s World Ranking (Rolex Ranking). Holding the 57th rank in the Olympic Rankings on IGFGOLF.org, she is the only golfer who participated in the Asian Youth Games (2013), Youth Olympic Games (2014), Asian Games (2014) and Rio Olympics (2016)

Sharmila Nicollet: She is the youngest Indian golfer to qualify for the European golf tour. Winning her first tournament when she was only 14, this 25-year-old golfer is known for her dedication and perseverance. The pro practices for at least 6 hours a day on the course and was ranked #1 in 2011 on the WGAI rankings & is again ranked 7th this year.

Vani Kapoor: The 22-year golfer turned pro in 2012 and was appointed Thailand’s Golf Ambassador in February this year. She ranks 865 according to Official Women’s World Ranking (Rolex Ranking). She was also ranked #1 Women Amateur Golfer in India in 2009 and 2011.

Gauri Monga: She has been playing golf since she was 12 and became a pro in 2014. She ranks 843 in the Official Women’s World Ranking (Rolex Ranking) and has also won the title of Rolex Player of the year in 2008 and 2010. The 23 year was previously ranked #1 on the IGU Ladies Amateur Merit list in 2008-09 and 2010-11.

Kishi Sinha: The golfer started playing the game of golf at the age of 9 and had an Official Women’s World Ranking (Rolex Ranking) of 740. She is also a member of the Indian golf team.

While those above are all professional female golf players, the game of golf is churning out several female amateur golfers too.  With golf courses like Manesar Golf Clubs situated at a convenient distance from the metropolitan cities, the game has become accessible to all. So, ladies it’s time to get your golf apparel and equipment ready and try your luck at this excellent game.