M. James Ward

Written by M. James Ward

A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 67-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 12 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
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.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Masters meltdown - tortoises reign supreme

Masters meltdown – tortoises reign supreme

Pace of play for the second round was atrocious. M. James Ward outlines the ripple effect of slow play and the cancer it causes in…

Max Homa watches his tee shot on the 12th hole during the first round of the 88th Masters

Can Homa take it home?

Playing in the final pairing Saturday, Max Homa will be under the brightest of spotlights. M. James Ward outlines the stakes involved.

Tiger Woods at the Masters

Tiger prowl set for Masters weekend

The 15-time major champion sits seven shots back. M. James Ward reviews his play and what to expect for the final 36 holes.

Bryson DeChambeau

Bryson bound – brainy, bonkers or brilliant?

An opening round 65 has Dechambeau leading after round one. M. James Ward delves into his myriad of quirks and opines on whether his enormous…

Scottie Scheffler hits a shot to the green from the first fairway during the final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Superman Scheffler soaring

The world-ranked-number-one is climbing higher after defending his Players title. M. James Ward examines the monster year already in motion.

Sawgrass - iconic moments 2

Pain, pride personified at The Players

Pete Dye’s diabolical design is once again front and center. M. James Ward examines how the final three holes are golf’s ultimate concluding gauntlet.

No points - no plan - no possibilities? 

No points, no plan, no possibilities? 

The fumbled decision by Greg Norman leaves LIV in a state of flux. M. James Ward outlines how the feeble follies leave a fledging format…

Wishing Woods Well

Tiger’s walk-off at Riviera shows he can no longer compete at the elite level.

Ten questions needing answers in 2024

Ten questions needing answers in 2024

Golf’s new year curtain is about to be raised.

The ten top newsmakers for 2023

Each moved the needle – now what lies ahead?