10-time LPGA champion Annika Sorenstam has ushered in unparalleled success, paving the way for many others to come. Throughout it all, she has greatly relied upon her near and dear ones for their unending love and support. On Saturday, however, the 52-year-old suffered a tragic loss of a special companion from her close-knit family.

The LPGA Hall of Famer took to social media on Saturday to update her followers about her regret at not being present when a ‘loving, playful, and talkative’ member of her family passed away. Following the heartbreaking revelation, condolence messages have poured in for Annika Sorenstam and her family on the internet.

Annika Sorenstam mourns the loss of her loved one

Annika Sorenstam lives a tranquil life in Orlando, Florida, with her husband and children, Ava and William. Golf has somewhat taken a backseat for the Swedish pro, and she now focuses more on her family and other career endeavors. She is also a cat lover and has, from time to time, offered the golf world an insight into her beautiful pets. But, unfortunately, on Saturday, Sorenstam had to say goodbye to one of her cats, Nona.

At the time of her death, Nona was 17 years old. The golfer, who last made an appearance at Pebble Beach for the US Women’s Open, also took to Instagram to share some heartwarming pictures of her feline friend.

Annika Sorenstam expressed her sorrow for not being there when Nona passed, on account of her playing in California at the major this week. “Sad I wasn’t by your side, when you left us,” Giving the golf world a deep insight into how heartbroken she was, she added, “You were always by my side…#RIP Nona. Best kitty ever, loving, playful, talkative and part of the family.”

Just a few months ago, on International Pet Day, the LPGA great shared an adorable photo of Nona resting by her side while she worked. “Happy #internationalpetday much love to all pets, especially Nona (17years),” the caption read.

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Sorenstam’s husband, Mike McGee, also took to Twitter to grieve the loss of the beloved family member. Meanwhile, the couple’s friends, as well as Annika’s ever-loyal fans, also went on to shower them with love as they joined in the mourning of beloved Nona.

Messages of condolences and support pour in for Annika Sorenstam’s cat, Nona

Mike McGee, who tied the knot with Annika Sorenstam over a decade ago, recounted his own personal story of meeting Nona for the first time. Having grown up with dogs, he eventually came to love the kitty greatly. Mike also shared that the beloved cat was a rescue that his wife had found during a storm.

The couple’s 12-year-old son and budding golfer, William, also shared a photo of Nona on his Instagram story. He wrote, “I’m going to miss you so much. You have been with me ever since I was born. I love you so much and I wish I was there when you passed.” The young McGee has accompanied his mother to the Women’s US Open this week, and just like her, he was heartbroken about not being able to be there during the pet’s final moments.

Sorenstam’s heartrending post on Instagram saw many other cat parents narrating their own painful experiences. “Awww fur babies are always close by to love us unconditionally!!! RIP kitty,” read one comment. “Sorry for your loss. I know the feeling,” grieved another fan. One Instagram user wrote, “we will light a candle tonight to help guide Nona across the rainbow bridge…” Another cat lover empathized with Sorenstam, saying, “We are lucky when they choose us.”

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The passing of their cherished companion has, no doubt, greatly affected Annika Sorenstam and her family. Hopefully, they will be drawing strength from the supportive and warm messages that have poured in for them during this trying time.