St. Augustine, FL (My Sportsbook) - Japan's Ayako Okamoto has been elected by the International ballot voting body to become a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame in November.

"It is hard to express in words my joy in becoming a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame," said Okamoto. "I never dreamt the choices I made during my 30- year career would lead me to join the ranks of the most respected players in the history of golf."

Okamoto won 62 times around the world throughout her career and dominated the LPGA of Japan with 44 titles on that circuit. The had 17 victories on the LPGA Tour and enjoyed her best season in 1987 when she was chosen as the Player of the Year following a campaign that saw her win four times. Okamoto also won once on the Ladies European Tour.

"Ayako's playing record, both internationally and on the LPGA Tour, make her eminently qualified for golf's highest honor," said LPGA Commissioner Ty Votaw. "Her inclusion in the World Golf Hall of Fame will further her status as the most popular female player in Japan."

For the third straight year, a Japanese player will become part of the World Golf Hall of Fame. Isao Aoki was inducted in 2004 and Hisako Higuchi was a member of the Class of 2003.