The prestigious U.S. Women’s Open, the oldest major championship in women’s pro golf, kicks off Thursday at Erin Hills Club in Wisconsin, featuring the largest purse in the sport.
This marks Erin Hills’ debut as a host for the Women’s U.S. Open, and its challenging design, influenced by ancient glacial activity, is expected to test the skills of top female golfers.
Nelly Korda’s Season So Far
Similar to Scottie Scheffler’s journey on the PGA Tour, world No. 1 Nelly Korda has had a slow start to her season on the LPGA Tour, having not secured a win yet despite being a formidable player last year.
Korda remarked on her season’s ups and downs, emphasizing the importance of patience and dedication to practice. Her consistent performances include top-25 finishes, like a runner-up position in the season opener.
Lydia Ko’s Career Grand Slam Ambition
At just 27, Lydia Ko has the opportunity to become the eighth golfer to achieve a career Grand Slam by winning the U.S. Women’s Open. She has two top-10 finishes in prior tournaments but missed the cut last year.
Ko shared that having goals keeps her motivated, regardless of the outcome, and she’ll begin her rounds with defending champion Yuka Saso and amateur Rianne Malixi.
Saso’s Quest for a Third Title
Defending champion Yuka Saso aims to be the seventh golfer to win the U.S. Women’s Open three times, following impressive past winners. She relished her previous triumphs, highlighting her journey as a two-time major champion.
Challenges at Erin Hills
Erin Hills is a par-72 course stretching 6,829 yards, making it the second longest on the LPGA Tour this season. With potential thunderstorms and varying wind conditions expected, golfers face a tough challenge.
The course is largely devoid of water hazards but features numerous bunkers, demanding precision from players. Korda and others stress the importance of ball-striking and strategy on this testing course.
