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

McIlroy’s misfire

M. James Ward delves into the confounding play of the four-time major winner and the ongoing major-less slump

The most impactful Opens since World War II

M. James Ward lists the ten key events that shaped golf’s oldest major and the lasting significance each provided.

Ludvig Aberg of Sweden speaks in a press conference prior to The 152nd Open championship at Royal Troon on July 15, 2024 in Troon, Scotland.

Ludvig’s lessons

M. James Ward analyzes the emerging Swedish golfer and the lessons he must learn from his final round hiccups.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland speaks to the media during a press conference prior to The 152nd Open championship at Royal Troon

McIlroy’s mission, mind over matter

M. James Ward examines the ongoing saga of the world’s second ranked player. How an Open victory provides the needed impetus to bury the past…

The Claret Jug

Behind the Architectural Curtain – Royal Troon Golf Club

152nd Open Championship

The Lore of the Links

M. James Ward outlines the roots of the game and how The Open is the critical connector to past, present and future.

Arnold Palmer

How Arnie’s arrival prompted The Open’s return?

M. James Ward assesses how Palmer’s record setting win at Troon in 1962 set in motion the ascension of golf’s oldest major event.

TROON, SCOTLAND - AUGUST 17: A general view of the par 3, eighth hole Postage Stamp at Royal Troon on 2024 in Troon, Scotland.

Proper postage preferred

M. James Ward reviews the tantalizing terror of Troon’s famous short hole and the pressures facing those competing to capture the famed Claret Jug.

The 2025 Team USA Ryder Cup captain, Keegan Bradley during the 2025 Ryder Cup Captain’s Announcement

Can Clark Kent become Superman at Bethpage?

M. James Ward examines the new USA Ryder Cup captain and what lies ahead for Keegan Bradley.

The 13th hole

Barclay Douglas, Jr. interview

President, Newport Country Club, host of this week’s US Senior Open

The Clubhouse as seen at Newport Country Club in Newport, Rhode Island

Four holes to watch – 2024 US Senior Open

M. James Ward outlines the key holes that will play a pivotal role in determining this year’s winner at Newport.

The clubhouse at TPC River Highlands

The Travelers: Golf’s go to event

M. James Ward outlines the rise of Connecticut’s PGA Tour event and how a strict attention to details has proven to be a bonanza for…

Fifth hole at Fields Ranch at PGA Frisco West Course

Grade “A” Architecture – Fields Ranch at PGA Frisco West #5

M. James Ward examines the new facility in Texas that will have plenty of eyes watching in the near future.

Bryson DeChambeau holds the US Open trophy in the bunker from which he made the winning par at the US Open at Pinehurst

Bryson’s renaissance at Pinehurst

M. James Ward outlines how the “new” DeChambeau is a fan favorite and how his stirring final par to edge out Rory McIlroy is just…

Rory Mcilroy

Major McIlroy meltdown

M. James Ward outlines how Rory’s story just got more complicated and if the talented player can recover from the Pinehurst implosion.

Bryson DeChambeau is leading heading into the final round of the US Open

Is Bryson bound? 2nd US Open in reach

M. James Ward examines the remarkable turnaround from previous enigma to fan favorite now with a win at Pinehurst firmly in sight.

The fifth hole at Pinehurst No.2 - US Open 2024

Fear factor flourishing at Pinehurst No.2

M. James Ward outlines how precision has returned to this year’s US Open and how mental anguish will impact the contenders this weekend.

Tiger Woods

Memo to Tiger – There is no tomorrow

M. James Ward outlines the reality of what Woods faces and the tight rope he walks between being hopeful and hopeless.

Ludvig Åberg finished the opening round of the US Open in third place.

Ludvig lurking

M. James Ward assesses the emergence of golf’s next generation and whether a Swede can win the grand prize this week at Pinehurst.

Patrick Cantlay

Can “Paddy Ice” heat up at US Open?

M. James Ward assesses the underachievement to date of Patrick Cantlay in the major championships.