LPGA Tour players cheered the Royal and Ancient Golf Club’s decision to finally admit female members on Thursday, calling it a historic decision and a step in the right direction.

“It’s great obviously,” said Canadian veteran golfer Lorie Kane. “I guess a long time coming.

“There are businesswomen who are capable that want to be a member of Augusta. Now we can get the R&A to maybe sit down at the table with us as equals.”

Scotland’s R&A Golf Club of St. Andrews on Thursday voted to allow women members for the first time in its 260-year history. The vote passed by a margin of 85 per cent in favour to 15 per cent against.

The Ladies Professional Golf Association also welcomed the move.

“The LPGA is happy to hear that the members of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club in St. Andrews have voted to include female members,” said spokesperson Kelly Thesier.

“This decision is certainly a step in the right direction and one that better captures the current diversity and inclusiveness of our great game.”

The move comes two years after Augusta National admitted its first two female members.

“I am thrilled the R&A has voted overwhelmingly to allow female members,” said 10-time major winner Annika Sorenstam. “This is a great day for golf and a historic one for women in golf.”

The PGA of America president Ted Bishop said the move would help grow the game internationally.

“Women have played and will continue to play an integral role in the game of golf. In fact, women represent the biggest growth market in the sport, and every step to make golf more inclusive is good for the game,” Bishop said in a statement.

“The PGA of America is thrilled that the R&A is welcoming women into its organisation, and loudly applauds its decision.”