Alonso‘s tale has a little bit of everything from personal tragedy to close calls and unfulfilled potential. But, as much as than any of that, it is a timely reminder of the uniqueness of golf.

The Ladies Open by Pickala was Alonso’s 251st start on the LET and came in her 19th year as a member. It was also her first victory. At the age of 38.

That’s a pretty remarkable personal triumph but is also an indication of just how different golf is to pretty much all other sports.

In what other arena could a 19-year veteran be tasting just their first success?

She’s not the first to have a late career win, of course. Becky Morgan was 44 and 18 years a professional when she claimed her maiden title in India in 2018 and Richard Bland was 48 and 478 starts into his career before winning the British Masters two years ago.

But just like those – and several others over the years – Alonso’s late career maiden win will serve as inspiration for amateurs and professionals alike.

Not for the first time, golfers of every level will be reminded of the old adage to never give up because in this game, you never know what might happen.

When Alonso turned professional in 2004 it would have been a brave pundit to predict she wouldn’t win in her first year or two as a pro.

One of the longest hitters of her generation and a star of European amateur golf, the Spaniard seemed destined for success.

"Not for the first time, golfers of every level will be reminded of the old adage to never give up because in this game, you never know what might happen." – Rod Morri.

But it never came. She lost her father at the age of 17 and in 2015 missed almost an entire season when her mother was diagnosed with lung cancer.

Those setbacks will only have made this victory – achieved in fine style with a birdie at the 17th to grab the lead and a brilliant pitch at the last to save par and a one-shot win – all the sweeter.

As she approaches 40 it is likely Alonso is past her best physically but in golf that isn’t necessarily fatal.

There are multiple ways to succeed, especially in the women’s game where power is not quite as big a predictor of success as it is in the modern men’s game, and Alonso might yet capture more titles.

Of course, she also might not and that would in no way diminish her achievement this past weekend.

The victory has earned her starts in both the Evian Championship and AIG Women’s Open, just her second and third major appearances, and they have been well earned.

Whether she goes on to taste more success or not, Alonso has already achieved something beyond capturing a trophy. She has set an example and likely inspired an unknown number of people.

Few in golf, let alone life, truly get to do that.