What Is 1959 United States Women's Open

Overview

The 1959 United States Women's Open was a pivotal moment in women's golf history, marking the emergence of Mickey Wright as a dominant force. Held at Churchill Valley Country Club in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the tournament showcased elite skill under challenging conditions.

Wright, then 24 years old, captured her first U.S. Women's Open title, finishing with a total score of 293 (+13) over four rounds. Her one-stroke victory over legendary golfer Louise Suggs solidified her status among the sport’s greats.

• Mickey Wright claimed her first U.S. Women's Open title, beginning a streak of four wins in this championship over her career.
• The event took place from June 25–27, 1959, making it one of the earliest mid-summer editions of the tournament.
• Churchill Valley Country Club, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, hosted the event for the first and only time.
• Wright’s winning score of 293 (+13) reflected the difficult course conditions and high level of competition.
• She defeated Louise Suggs, a fellow LPGA Hall of Famer, by a single stroke in a tightly contested final round.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open is structured as a 72-hole stroke-play tournament, with the lowest total score determining the champion. In 1959, the format followed traditional golf rules with no cuts after 36 holes, allowing all competitors to play all four rounds.

• Format: The tournament used a 72-hole stroke-play format, standard for U.S. Open events, with no mid-tournament cuts.
• Participants: The field included top professionals and amateurs, such as Mickey Wright, Louise Suggs, and Betsy Rawls.
• Course Setup: Churchill Valley measured approximately 6,000 yards, par 72, with thick rough and narrow fairways.
• Scoring: Wright shot rounds of 74-73-73-73, maintaining consistency despite variable weather.
• Prize Money: The winner received $1,500 from a total purse of $10,000, reflecting the era’s limited funding for women’s sports.
• Historical Context: This win was the second major title of Wright’s career, following her 1958 LPGA Championship victory.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of key metrics from the 1959 U.S. Women's Open with modern standards highlights significant evolution in the sport.

Modern tournaments feature longer courses, larger fields, and vastly increased prize money, reflecting growth in women’s golf. However, the 1959 event remains iconic for launching Wright’s legendary career and showcasing resilience in adverse conditions.

Why It Matters

The 1959 U.S. Women's Open was more than just a tournament—it was a milestone in the development of professional women’s golf. Mickey Wright’s victory inspired future generations and highlighted the competitive depth of the LPGA in its formative years.

• Legacy of Mickey Wright: This win began her rise as one of the most dominant players in LPGA history, with 82 career wins.
• Historical Significance: The tournament helped legitimize women’s golf as a professional sport during a time of limited media coverage.
• Course Challenge: The high winning score of +13 demonstrated the difficulty of Churchill Valley, comparable to modern major tests.
• Gender Equity: The disparity in prize money underscored the need for greater investment in women’s sports, a cause still relevant today.
• Influence on Future Events: The 1959 Open set a precedent for competitive balance and sportsmanship in future championships.
• Cultural Impact: Wright’s success helped popularize women’s golf in the U.S., paving the way for stars like Nancy Lopez and Annika Sörenstam.

Today, the 1959 U.S. Women's Open is remembered not only for its competitive drama but also for its role in shaping the trajectory of women’s professional golf. Mickey Wright’s triumph remains a cornerstone of the sport’s history.