5 Surprising Facts About Katherine Zhu Morikawa: The Collegiate Golf Star Supporting Collin Morikawa's PGA Journey

As of December 18, 2025, the spotlight continues to shine brightly on Katherine Zhu Morikawa, the wife of two-time major champion and PGA Tour star Collin Morikawa. Far from being just a supportive partner, Katherine is a highly accomplished athlete in her own right, whose deep understanding of the game of golf has made her an invaluable asset to Collin's career, especially as he navigates the high-pressure world of professional golf and prepares for major events like the 2025 Ryder Cup. This article delves into the fascinating life and career of Katherine Zhu, revealing the surprising details of her own athletic journey, her role in Collin's success, and the intimate details of their relationship.

Their story is a modern golf romance, beginning in the collegiate ranks and culminating in a glamorous Los Angeles wedding. The Morikawas represent one of the PGA Tour's most dynamic power couples, with Katherine's background as a former collegiate golf champion at Pepperdine University providing a unique foundation for their partnership. While Collin Morikawa's five PGA Tour victories, including the PGA Championship and The Open Championship, dominate the headlines, it is Katherine's unwavering support and shared knowledge of the sport that provides the stability for his continued success.

Katherine Zhu Morikawa: Full Biography and Profile

Katherine Zhu Morikawa, formerly Katherine Zhu, is a former collegiate golfer and the wife of professional golfer Collin Morikawa. Her life story is a blend of international experience and athletic excellence, providing a unique perspective that she brings to her husband’s career.

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• Full Name: Katherine Zhu Morikawa (Maiden: Katherine Zhu)
• Date of Birth: 1996
• Place of Birth: Vancouver, Canada
• Nationality: Canadian/American
• Education: Pepperdine University (Graduated 2018)
• College Golf Career: Played four seasons for the Pepperdine Waves women's golf team, earning WGCA All-American honors.
• Post-Collegiate Career: Briefly played professionally on the China LPGA Tour.
• Spouse: Collin Morikawa (Married 2022)
• Wedding Date: November 26, 2022
• Wedding Location: Hotel Bel-Air, Los Angeles, California
• Children: None (As of late 2025)
• Pets: A dog named Koa, who was part of their wedding ceremony.
• Current Role: Avid golfer, traveler, and primary support system for Collin Morikawa on the PGA Tour.

The Collegiate Rivalry That Turned Into a Love Story

The foundation of Collin and Katherine’s relationship is rooted deeply in a shared passion for competitive golf, though they attended rival colleges. Their love story began in 2017 when they first met while both were competing in the high-stakes world of NCAA Division I golf.

Collin Morikawa was a standout player for the University of California, Berkeley (Cal Bears), while Katherine was a key member of the women’s golf team at Pepperdine University (Pepperdine Waves). Despite the traditional rivalry between the two universities, their shared experience as elite student-athletes created an immediate bond. The couple often jokes that their relationship started with a bit of friendly—or perhaps competitive—banter on the course.

Their engagement came in 2021, shortly after Collin’s graduation and during a period where his professional career was rapidly ascending. The proposal was a significant moment, marking the transition from collegiate sweethearts to a committed partnership ready to tackle the challenges of the PGA Tour together. This shared history in the sport means that Katherine doesn't just offer emotional support; she provides feedback and understanding that only a fellow high-level golfer can.

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The wedding, which took place on November 26, 2022, was a glamorous, intimate affair held at the luxurious Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, California. The black-and-white themed ceremony was a beautiful celebration of their journey, even featuring their beloved dog, Koa, in the proceedings.

Katherine Zhu’s Own Impressive Golf Career and Post-College Path

One of the most compelling aspects of Katherine Zhu Morikawa's profile is her own impressive, albeit brief, professional golf career. She is not merely a golf enthusiast; she is an elite, trained competitor.

During her four years at Pepperdine, Katherine was an exceptional player, appearing in 39 events and maintaining a collegiate scoring average of 76.54. Her talent was recognized with prestigious WGCA All-American honors, a testament to her skill and dedication to the game. She was a champion in her own right, with an intense focus that mirrors her husband's.

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After graduating from Pepperdine in 2018, Katherine made the jump to professional golf. She spent a period competing on the China LPGA Tour, gaining valuable experience on the global circuit. However, her time as a full-time touring professional was short-lived. She ultimately transitioned from a competitor to a supportive partner, a decision that has proven instrumental in Collin’s career trajectory.

Her role today is less about competing and more about providing a steady, knowledgeable presence. As a fellow golfer, she understands the mental and physical toll of the PGA Tour, the pressure of Major Championships like the PGA Championship and The Open Championship, and the nuances of the game. Her presence on the road is often cited by Collin as a key factor in his consistency and his ability to break long droughts, such as his emotional win at the Zozo Championship in late 2023.

The Morikawa Power Couple: A Major Force on the PGA Tour

The Morikawas have become one of the most visible and respected couples in professional golf, often seen alongside other prominent golf WAGs, including those of players like Scottie Scheffler and Justin Thomas. Katherine’s presence in the gallery is a constant, offering silent support and a familiar face during the most stressful moments of a tournament.

Her understanding of the golf swing and the mental game allows her to be more than just a cheerleader; she is a confidante and a sounding board. This deep, shared context is a competitive advantage for Collin, helping him maintain focus on the course.

As Collin Morikawa continues to chase more Major Championship titles and prepares for his role on Team USA in future events like the 2025 Ryder Cup, Katherine Zhu Morikawa's role as his wife, former competitor, and primary supporter will only grow in importance. Their partnership is a perfect example of how two elite athletes can combine their strengths to achieve greatness in one of the world's most demanding sports.