Emma Talley and golf honors go hand-in-hand.
The Princeton native is one of only six women ever to win both the U.S. Women’s Amateur and the NCAA Div. I Individual Championship.
Her career includes appearances in the Junior Ryder Cup, Junior Solheim Cup, and numerous LPGA events.
Talley’s exploits have earned her a new distinction — Hall of Famer.
Talley is one of four members in the 2025 Class of the Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame.
Talley’s achievements on the golf course are almost too many to name.
She was a three-time Kentucky state champion at Caldwell County High School. It would have been four state championships, if not for an unfortunate scorecard error that she self-reported after realizing the mistake, which led to her disqualification. However, the incident earned her national acclaim for her integrity and character.
Talley won the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship in 2013 and then claimed the 2015 NCAA Championship while at the University of Alabama.
After turning pro, Talley earned over $1.4 million on the LPGA Tour
“Emma has demonstrated remarkable resilience and perseverance on the LPGA Tour,” said University of Alabama Women’s Head Coach Mic Potter in a press release from Golf House Kentucky. “She has not only achieved significant milestones in her own career but has also inspired a generation of golfers with her talent, determination, and character.”
Talley has continued to give back to the game through her work as a broadcaster with ESPN+ Golf, as an ambassador for Girls Golf, and by joining the Western Kentucky University Women’s Golf coaching staff in 2024.
Her charitable work includes partnering with Golf Fore Africa, helping raise funds for clean water initiatives in underserved communities.
“Emma’s story is one of hard work, faith, and perseverance. She embodies the best of Kentucky, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor,” said Todd Trimble, PGA Professional at The Golf Complex in Paducah.
The Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame was established in 1984 as a joint effort by the Kentucky Golf Association and the Kentucky PGA to honor individuals in Kentucky who have attained significant achievements and accomplishments in various areas of golf. Membership includes individuals with remarkable records as players, golf professionals, golf course superintendents, educators, and golf administrators. These inductees have not only excelled in their respective roles but have also demonstrated a lasting commitment to growing the game, shaping its future, and inspiring generations of golfers throughout the Commonwealth.
Each year, the Hall of Fame celebrates those whose impact on the sport transcends competition—those who have elevated Kentucky golf through leadership, service, and passion.
Others in the 2025 Class are Keith Ohr, Josh Teater and Andy Roberts.
(Includes information from a Golf House Kentucky press release.)
One Response
Congratulations!! Your Dad was already in my family’s Hall Of Fame. We thought he was the best. I know he was already so proud of you and added this achievement to your many others. I live in Tuscaloosa now. I was good friends with "Bear" and Cecil hurt as well of many of the University athletes. You have fans everywhere.