A two-time winner of the Girls' Junior Championship, Nancy Lopez, 15, celebrates while outlasting Catherine Morse in 1972 Jefferson City C.C. Lopex beat Lauren Howe in 1974. (USGA Photo Archives)

While attending the University of Tulsa, Lopez was named an All-American in 1976 and was named the school's athlete of the year. (USGA Photo Archives)

As an amateur Lopez tasted moderate success. She entered the Women's Open in 1975 -- her first one -- and finished in a tie for second behind Sandra Palmer. (USGA Photo Archives)

After a stellar college career, Lopez joined the LPGA Tour in 1978. She ran off a record-setting five straight victories en route to nine for the season. Here she celebrates winning the LPGA Championship in '78. (USGA Photo Archives)

Lopez may have had a disappointing time at the 1978 Women's Open, but she did take home several awards that year. She is still the only player to win Rookie of the Year, Player of the Year and Vare Trophy honors in the same season. (USGA Photo Archives)

By 1985, Lopez had definitely established herself as a top-notch player. She again won the Player of the Year award and Vare Trophy. (USGA Photo Archives)

Her most disappointing Women's Open nearly behind her, Lopez provided comic relief in the 1998 Women's Open at Blackwolf Run G.C. by waving a white towel of surrender. She finished 18-over 160, prompting her to say through tears: "It wasn't very much fun. I just wantedto hide and go away from a while." (USGA Photo Archives)

In 1998 Lopez was the recipient of the USGA's Bob Jones Award, which recognizes distinguished sportsmanship in the game of golf. This season, Lopez's 25th on the LPGA Tour, will be her last. She qualified for the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame in 1987. Although she never has won a Women's Open title, finishing second four times, her popularity in the game has never wavered. (USGA Photo Archives)