Jack Nicklaus and Annika Sorenstam have been appointed as global ambassadors by the International Golf Federation (IGF) to help the sport win a place in the Olympic Games.

Golf is one of seven sports campaigning for two spots on the program starting from the 2016 Olympics.

American Nicklaus and Swede Sorenstam, arguably the greatest male and female golfers of all time, will represent their sport at select international events, the IGF said on Thursday.

They will also support the IGF's Olympic Golf Committee, which is spearheading the bid.