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

Behind the Architectural Curtain – Pinehurst No.2 – Pt.2

124th US Open – Pinehurst, North Carolina, USA

US Open Trophy

The greatest non-winners of the US Open

M. James Ward outlines the most talented players who failed to claim the coveted US Open Golf Championship.

The 17th hole of Pinehurst Resort

Behind the Architectural Curtain – Pinehurst No.2 – Pt.1

124th U.S. Open – Pinehurst, North Carolina, USA

A detailed view of the hole 18 flag on Course No. 2 - Pinehurst No. 2 is set to host the 2024 US Open

What makes Pinehurst No. 2 so compelling?

M. James Ward examines the architecture that the world’s best will encounter on Donald Ross’ Pinehurst No. 2 masterpiece.

Nick Taylor, second from left, of Canada, reacts after winning the Canadian Open golf tournament on the fourth playoff hole

The Forgotten Open

M. James Ward examines how the Canadian Open went from one of the most prestigious championships to a far lesser role and is now seeking…

Grade "A" Architecture - Tamarack CC Holes 1 & 2 after the renovation

Grade “A” Architecture – Tamarack CC

Greenwich, Connecticut, USA

Xander Schauffele holds the Wanamaker Trophy after winning the US PGA Championship

Ten lessons learned from Valhalla

M. James Ward examines the moments and memories that resonate from the 106th PGA Championship.

Xander Schauffele holds the Wanamaker Trophy after winning the US PGA Championship at Valhalla

“X” factor earns Wannamaker

M. James Ward outlines how Xander Schauffele secured the PGA Championship title with a gusty final round performance

Shane Lowry (pictured) brought himself into contention with a 3rd roud 62 at the PGA Championship

Shane’s Show

M. James Ward reviews how the Irishman nearly posted the lowest 18-hole score in a major event and now finds himself in contention to secure…

Belle of Louisville Riverboats

Louisville lives

Bourbon City is a mecca for the fullest range of entertainment options with the PGA Championship in the headliner role this week.

Collin Morikawa holds the Wanamaker Trophy after winning the 2020 PGA Championship golf tournament at TPC Harding

Morikawa’s major move

M. James Ward outlines how the two-time major champion is poised to make a run this weekend for a second Wannamaker Trophy.

Scottie Scheffler watches his tee shot at the RBC Heritage golf tournament

Scheffler’s seismic situation

M. James Ward reviews the circumstances turning this year’s PGA Championship into far more than the sport’s second major event in 2024

Xander Schauffele - Will "X" finally mark buried treasure for Schauffele at the PGA Championship?

Will “X” finally mark buried treasure for Schauffele?

M. James Ward examines the ongoing efforts of the 3rd ranked player in the world seeking his first major triumph.

A view from the 18th hole

Four holes to watch at this year’s PGA Championship

John Ballard, superintendent at Valhalla, was asked for his thoughts on four key holes for this year’s event.

Valhalla Golf Club

Five to watch at Valhalla

M. James Ward breaks down the five leading contenders for the year’s second major at the PGA Championship

A view of the Rolex time piece at Valhalla Golf Club - Should Gooch have gotten PGA Smooch?

Should Gooch have gotten PGA Smooch?

M. James Ward examines how the self-centered player arrives at Valhalla and why the expectations are now squarely on his shoulders this week.

A view from the second hole at Valhalla

Behind the Architectural Curtain – 106th PGA Championship Pt.2

Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Ben Polland poses with the 2024 PGA Professional Championship Trophy after winning the PGA Professional Championship at PGA Frisco

Ben Polland interview

PGA Director of Golf, Shooting Star, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The 13th hole at Valhalla

Behind the Architectural Curtain – 106th PGA Championship Pt.1

Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Tiger Woods

When Woods became “the” Tiger

M. James Ward outlines how winning the PGA Championship 25 years ago became the springboard for winning seven of the next 11 major events.