M. James Ward

Written by M. James Ward

A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 68-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 13 Ryder Cup matches. His writings have appeared in various outlets. On a personal level, has played over 2,000 courses globally and is lead reviewer for Top 100 Golf Courses.  Previously served for 17 years as national course rating panelist for Golf Digest. Has also personally competed in USGA Championships. Resides in the metro New York City area with his wife Celeste. Favorite quote paraphrased for golf — "You are what your golf score says you are."
M. James Ward
Bryson DeChambeau of Team United States hits his shot on the fifth hole during the 2025 Ryder Cup on the Black Course at Bethpage State Park

The Ryder Cup needs updating

Specific improvements can add even more thrills.

Bethpage Black will host the 2025 Ryder Cup. Jole 5

Bethpage Bound

Yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Scottie Scheffler of the United States reacts on the seventh green during Day Four of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club

How high will “Superman” Scheffler soar?

Forecasts face fickle future.

Bradley’s conundrum for Bethpage 

To play or not to play — Keegan’s question?

Tommy Fleetwood

Tommy’s “fleeting” finishes

What’s ahead – good and bad?

Scottie Scheffler plays his tee shot on the third hole during the final round of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club

Scheffler secures top ten finish but much more was possible

Poor putting, wayward driving emerges at Oakmont.

The Wanamaker trophy on the 18th

Letter grades from the 107th PGA Championship

Highlighting the contenders and pretenders from Quail Hollow.

Scottie Scheffler of the United States plays his second shot on the second hole on day four

Time to shine, not whine

Be a stud — not a dud on mud.

Left to right — Jimmy Roberts, NBC-Sports and Golf Channel; Michelle Wie West, Mizuho Americas Open Brand Ambassador and Tournament Host; Gianna Clemente, AJGA Invitee for 2025 event. - Women's pro golf -- is lasting liftoff likely?

Women’s pro golf — is lasting liftoff likely?

Miles driven, miles to go.

Jon Rahm

Rahm’s reckoning revealed 

Former world number one now Masters bystander.

Man watering a golf course

Drip by drip – golf’s pending water crisis

Uncertain future, mounting challenges lie ahead.

Tiger Woods endured a frustrating first day at the Open

Tiger’s time terminated

When there is doubt – there is no doubt

Hideki Matsuyama of Japan reacts on the eighth green during the final round of The Sentry 2025 at Plantation Course at Kapalua Golf Club

Japan’s rising son

Matsuyama’s magical moment at Kapalua produced the lowest score in relation to par for a 72-hole PGA Tour event.

Bethpage Black will host the 2025 Ryder Cup. Jole 5

Christmas presents come early for USA Ryder Cup members

Bethpage bound – “It’s all about bucks, kid, the rest is conversation.”

Marco Simone Golf and Country Club staged this year's Ryder Cup (Zac Goodwin/PA)

25 questions needing answers in 2025 Pt.3

A new golf year means intriguing possibilities, clear challenges and perilous possible pitfalls.

Jon Rahm

25 questions needing answers in 2025 Pt.2

A new golf year means intriguing possibilities, clear challenges and perilous possible pitfalls.

Royal Portrush

25 questions needing answers in 2025 Pt.1

A new golf year means intriguing possibilities, clear challenges and perilous possible pitfalls

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am update

Is Golf’s Titanic Looming Ahead?

The coming ball rollback features many implications – will smooth sailing or iceberg filled waters await?

Tom Fazio Member Event | 2024

Fabulous Fazio, nearly 80-years-young, still going strong

Revolutionized golf architecture in reaping mega-dollars for clients and creating an array of visually appealing courses captivating players.

Captain, Keegan Bradley of team USA and Captain, Luke Donald of team Europe during the Ryder Cup Year to Go at The Times Center

2025 Ryder Cup – questions abound, answers evolving

Captains Keegan Bradley and Luke Donald will lead the respective teams. M. James Ward outlines the key topics ahead.