Golf-Kathy Whitworth, winningest pro golfer in history, dead at 83

Golf - Solheim Cup 2002, Interlachen GC, USA - Sunday Singles - Former LPGA star Kathy Whitworth 22/9/02 Action Images / Richard Heathcote/File Photo

(Reuters) - Kathy Whitworth, whose 88 LPGA Tour victories are the most ever by a player on a pro tour, passed away suddenly on Saturday while celebrating Christmas Eve with family and friends, her longtime partner Bettye Odle said. She was 83.

"It is with a heart full of love that we let everyone know of the passing of the winningest golf professional ever, Kathy Whitworth," Odle said in a statement on Sunday.