A fashion-forward, eye-popping WTGL tradition drew inspiration from Naomi Osaka, adding lifestyle flair to golf
A red carpet debut
Six players took part in the WTGL’s first red carpet treatment on Sunday afternoon. They later changed into uniforms and competed in the first match in league history, which LAGC won 3-1 against NY Golf Club.
The players discussed the idea behind the new tradition after the match. They said it was inspired in part by tennis star Naomi Osaka.
A new entrance for golf
Lopez said golf is among the few sports without a stadium-entrance tradition. That has meant LPGA players had not experienced a red carpet walk before a big day.
Athletes in major professional leagues have increasingly used fashion to express their personalities. In 2024, the NFL hired its first fashion editor, Kyle Smith, to help players express themselves through clothing during the season.
Players welcome the moment
Michelle Wie West called the walk-in a fun addition and said she hoped players would embrace it as another way to tell their stories through fashion. Her LAGC teammate Alison Lee said she rarely gets to have her makeup and hair done and wear heels at the same time. Lee also said she enjoyed having her picture taken.
Key points
- WTGL players held the league’s first red carpet walk-in on Sunday.
- The players said the fashion tradition drew inspiration from Naomi Osaka.
- LAGC beat NY Golf Club 3-1 in the first WTGL match.
- Michelle Wie West and Alison Lee welcomed the opportunity to express themselves through fashion.