Kathy Whitworth has died at the age of 83 ©Getty Images

Kathy Whitworth, who won an unmatched 88 Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour tournaments during her career, has died at the age of 83.

The American is regarded as one of the greatest women's golfers in history, with her wins stretching from 1962 until 1985.

Six of her victories came at LPGA Tour Majors, winning the Women's PGA Championship three times, the Titleholders Championship two times and the Western Open once.

Her first Major win came at the 1965 Titleholders Championship where she won by 10 strokes - one of the largest margins of victory in history.

Between 1966 and 1973, Whitworth was named LPGA Player of the Year.

Whitworth was accepted as a member of the LPGA Hall of Fame in 1975 and inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1982.

She was living in Flower Mound in Texas at the time of her "sudden death".

Her long-time partner Bettye Odle paid tribute to Whitworth.

Kathy Whitworth won 88 LPGA tournaments during her career ©Getty Images
Kathy Whitworth won 88 LPGA tournaments during her career ©Getty Images

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

"Kathy passed suddenly Saturday night celebrating Christmas Eve with family and friends. 

"Kathy left this world the way she lived her life, loving, laughing and creating memories."

As well as her Major wins, Whitworth was runner-up at the 1983 Chevron Championship and the 1971 US Women's Open.

In 1987, the American was also awarded the Patty Berg Award for the individual who "exemplifies diplomacy, sportsmanship, goodwill and contributions to the game of golf".