Christchurch, New Zealand: Lydia Ko has been appointed a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2025 New Year Honours List in recognition of her extraordinary achievements and contributions to golf.
The honour is an acknowledgment of a career defined by record-breaking success, unwavering humility, and an enduring impact on golf in New Zealand and beyond.
From bursting onto the international stage as a teenage prodigy to becoming the youngest player ever inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame, Ko has inspired a nation with her talent and determination.
Ko first came to prominence in 2010 when, aged 13, she made her debut in the Queen Sirikit Cup, helping New Zealand to second place. She was also part of the New Zealand Queen Sirikit Cup team in 2011 and 2012.
Her storied career includes 22 LPGA Tour victories, three Major championships, and three Olympic medals: silver in Rio 2016, bronze in Tokyo 2020, and an unforgettable gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, making her the only golfer in history to win three Olympic medals.
Golf New Zealand CEO Jeff Latch said: “Our organisation is immensely proud of Lydia, a true ambassador for our country and our sport. Her journey from a young prodigy to a gold medallist and Hall of Fame inductee will continue to inspire the next generation of golfers in Aotearoa.
“We see first-hand how her achievements motivate young Kiwi girls to pick up a club, step onto the green, and chase their own dreams in the world of golf.
"But what makes Lydia so loved in our organisation and across the country beyond her exceptional achievements is her humility, generosity in supporting young female golfers, engaging personality and her terrific sense of humour. I can think of no more worthy recipient of a Damehood than Lydia Ko.”
As Dame Lydia Ko, she joins an esteemed group of New Zealanders who have been recognised for their exceptional contributions.
Ko’s induction into the LPGA Hall of Fame at just 27 years old has cemented her place among the greatest to ever play the game.
As LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan noted: “Lydia’s qualification into the LPGA Hall of Fame isn’t just a milestone in her extraordinary career; it’s a testament to her generational talent, having built an unmatched resume of success at such a young age. Beyond her unprecedented achievements on the golf course, Lydia has inspired so many through her perseverance, kindness, generosity, and commitment to leaving the game better than she found it.”
Ko’s peers also celebrated her in 2024 with the LPGA Heather Farr Perseverance Award, recognising her dedication, resilience, and passion for the game.
Throughout her career, Ko has been more than just a champion golfer; she has been a role model and advocate for young girls and women in sport. Her grace, humility, and dedication have earned her a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide, while her humour and generosity have made her a beloved figure both on and off the course.
