The 80th U.S. Women`s Open, featuring the oldest major title and largest prize fund in women`s professional golf, begins Thursday at Erin Hills Club in Erin, Wisconsin. This marks the first time Erin Hills hosts the championship. Known for its challenging undulating landscape, shaped by ancient glaciers, the course is anticipated to be a significant test for the world`s top golfers.
As two-time major champion Nelly Korda noted, “It tests every part of your game… It`s very demanding. It`s firm. It`s fast, as well… I would say even the weather plays a big role…”
Here are the key storylines heading into the season`s second major:
Can Nelly Korda Find Her Form?
World No. 1 golfer Nelly Korda has had an “interesting” season, as she put it, with a mix of good and bad results. Unlike last year when she had multiple wins by this time, she is still seeking her first victory in seven starts. Despite not winning, Korda has shown strong performance metrics, ranking high in strokes gained categories including total, off the tee, tee to green, approach, and putting.
Her recent U.S. Open history includes missed cuts and lower finishes. Last year at Lancaster Country Club was particularly challenging, including a difficult opening round. Reflecting on the tournament, Korda stated, “It`s the biggest test in the game of golf. Definitely has tested me a lot. I love it.” She embraces the challenge presented by demanding courses and conditions, viewing it as a test of both skill and mental strength.
Lydia Ko`s Career Grand Slam Opportunity
Lydia Ko has a chance to become just the eighth player in LPGA history to achieve the career Grand Slam by winning the U.S. Women`s Open. At 27, she already holds three major titles from the Evian Championship (2015), Chevron Championship (2016), and Women`s British Open (2024).
Ko has previously finished in the top 10 at the U.S. Women`s Open but missed the cut last year. She views the pursuit of the Grand Slam as motivation. “I think as long as I`m playing, it`s always good to have a goal… it`s just more to just keep myself more motivated,” Ko said, adding that even if she never wins it, it wouldn`t significantly impact her life.
The exclusive list of players who have won four different majors includes legends like Louise Suggs, Mickey Wright, Annika Sorenstam, and Inbee Park. Sweden`s Anna Nordqvist also has the opportunity this week to complete her career Grand Slam.
Yuka Saso Aims for a Third Title
Defending champion Yuka Saso is seeking her third U.S. Women`s Open victory, a feat achieved by only six other golfers in history, including multiple winners like Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright, and Annika Sorenstam.
Saso won her first U.S. Women`s Open in 2021 while representing the Philippines and her second in 2024 representing Japan, becoming the only player to win the trophy while representing different countries. She reflected on her past wins, saying, “I could call myself a two-time major champion… winning it twice is much better.” Her ability to win under different national flags stemmed from her dual citizenship, which she held until required to choose one before turning 22.
Erin Hills: A Significant Challenge
Located near Milwaukee, Erin Hills Golf Course presents a formidable test for the players. The par-72 course will play at 6,829 yards, making it one of the longest courses on the LPGA Tour season.
While it hosted the men`s U.S. Open in 2017 (won by Brooks Koepka with a low score), the course is expected to play tougher for the women, particularly if wind becomes a factor, as is forecast for Friday. The course features no water hazards but boasts 132 sand bunkers and challenging 3½-inch fescue rough.
Players anticipate the course will demand precision. 2023 champion Allisen Corpuz noted hitting many hybrids and woods into greens, emphasizing the importance of ball-striking, especially with the green complexes and run-offs. Nelly Korda added, “It`s very demanding off the tee with all the bunkers… Just an overall good test of your entire game.”
Adrian Whitmore