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
Wyndham Clark reacts and acknowledges the crowd after sinking his putt on the 16th hole during the third round of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

Enough is enough — move on

The Oakmont incident. Why it lingers for Wyndham?

How to plan a golf day: A step-by-step guide

Does proposed solution solve problem or simply cause another to happen?

USGA stands behind rolling back golf ball for all.

A detailed view of a tee marker at the 9th hole during a practice round ahead of the 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

40 and counting!

Looking back on the venues, people and aura from America’s national championship.

Michelle Wie-West, Mizuho Americas Open Tournament Host

When “B” events arrive in an “A” market?

Building tomorrow’s foundation – Mizuho Americas Open.

Jon Rahm might not compete in US Open

Rahm’s reckoning

Spanish bull concludes with sheep-like retreat.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland poses with the Masters trophy during the Green Jacket Ceremony after winning the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club

Legacy ladder — McIlroy turns 37

Ascending golf’s Mount Everest – is ultimate glory Rory’s final story?

Team USA captain Jim Furyk during the USA team photos on preview day three of the Ryder Cup at Le Golf National

Forecasting Furyk — fitting finale or failing flop?

2027 Ryder Cup / Adare Manor

Robert MacIntyre (pictured) heads into the US Open on the back of his maiden PGA Tour victory in Canada

MacIntyre’s Misfire

Juvenile actions unacceptable at Augusta — time to grow up.

Scottie Scheffler

McIlroy’s magic versus Scheffler’s superman

Battle lines drawn. Solo supremacy sought. Both men engaged. Top spot at golf’s pinnacle peak on the line.

Tiger Woods

Project Tiger – The birth of genius and the price of greatness

M. James Ward reviews Gavin Newsham’s new book on Woods’ early years.

Historic Showdown at The Masters

Rahm’s reconciliation – ruse versus reality

Promising pathway possible, but does Spaniard have eyes and mind truly open?

Cameron Smith

Golf’s Invisible Man

Will Cameron Smith reappear at Augusta this week?

Tiger Woods endured a frustrating first day at the Open

Out of the Woods? Hardly so for Tiger.

Series of car crashes raises key questions and uncertain future.

Brian Rolapp

Rolapp’s resolute resolve

Key PGA Tour stakeholders face new pathway.

US PGA Championship in doubt following recommendations

The Nicklaus / Woods debate

The G.O.A.T. in golf — who is it?

Team Europe Captain Luke Donald sits for an interview with his team after winning the 2025 Ryder Cup on the Black Course at Bethpage State Park

Luke’s Lasting Legacy

Englishman named 2027 Euro Ryder Cup Captain. Looks to win unprecedented third consecutive match.

The “great” debate

Overstated, overrated, overused.

Patrick Reed of the United States acknowledges the crowd after winning the Qatar Masters 2026

Reed’s resounding resurrection

Golf’s “bad boy” bounces back.

Justin Rose

Rose in full boom

Wire-to-wire record performance at Torrey Pines.

Scottie Scheffler carded a closing 65 in the US PGA Championship

The Scheffler Surge – the beat goes on

3rd golfer to secure 20 PGA Tour wins before age 30.