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
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.

Michael Block reacts after his second round at the PGA Championship golf tournament at Oak Hill

Club pros yes, 20 spots no

M. James Ward examines the importance in maintaining club pros for the flagship event of the PGA of America but adds that total should be reduced…

Rose Zhang of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the Cognizant Founders Cup at Upper Montclair Country Club

Full Bloom Rose in Garden State Win

M. James Ward outlines how a new superstar is emerging in women’s professional golf and what that portends for the sport.

Valhalla Golf Club - 2024 PGA Championship

John G. Ballard interview

Certified Golf Course Superintendent, Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, KY, USA – 2024 PGA Championship,

USGA / R&A - Head-scratching hiccups - Rollback

Head-scratching hiccups, the USGA, R&A flip-flop

M. James Ward examines why rule-making organisations failed to act in a timely manner and then abandoned an initial rollback solution more suitable for recreational…

Lough Erne Resort - 17th tee

Grade “A” Architecture – Lough Erne Resort

Faldo Course, Co. Fermanagh, Enniskillen, Northern Ireland,

Grade "A" Architecture - Bobby Jones Golf Club

Grade “A” Architecture – Bobby Jones Golf Club

Sarasota, Florida, USA

Scottie Scheffler celebrates after a birdie on the 18th hole gave him a one-shot lead after 54 holes of the Masters

Scheffler still sizzling, PGA Championship looming

After winning the RBC following a second Masters triumph, M. James Ward outlines the monster year now in motion for the firmly entrenched number one…

Zebra

Simon Millington interview

CEO Golf Brands Inc.

Scottie Scheffler holds the trophy after winning the Masters golf tournament

Scheffler’s seismic shock waves

Golf’s sheriff reinforced his position as the game’s best. M. James Ward reviews what lies ahead for the two-time Masters champion and can the competition…

The Masters

Grades at the 88th Masters

The first major of the year produced an interesting mixture of highs and lows. M. James Ward assigns grades across the board from this year’s…

The RSM Classic 2023 R2

How Swede it is!

The name Ludvig Åberg may not be recognized as an up and coming pro golfer — just yet. M. James Ward reviews the near stunning play of…

Casey Schultz interview - Cleveland Golf - CBX4 ZipCore

Casey Schultz interview

Senior Product Manager Cleveland Golf. Wedge selection & fitting

Collin Morikawa looks over the ninth green during the first round at the 2022 U.S. Open

Morikawa’s “moving day”

Saturday’s third round generally features advancements by various players. M. James Ward outlines the only golfer who did so and what a green jacket can…

Last Masters call for Lundquist

“Oh wow” Verne!

Long-time Masters announcer calls 40th and final Masters today. M. James Ward reviews his most memorable calls at Augusta.

Scottie Scheffler intends to keep secrets of Masters success to himself

Scottie saves his round – and tournament

A roller-coaster round for the world’s best player. M. James Ward examines how Scheffler stopped the bleeding and holds the lead going into Sunday’s final…