What Is 2018 US Women's Open

Overview

The 2018 U.S. Women's Open was a landmark event in women's professional golf, marking the 73rd edition of the championship. Hosted at Shoal Creek Golf and Country Club in Birmingham, Alabama, it drew a global field of 156 players competing over four grueling days on a challenging 6,643-yard course.

Organized by the United States Golf Association (USGA), the tournament is one of the five major championships in women's golf. Known for its strict course setup and high cutline standards, the 2018 edition tested players with narrow fairways, thick rough, and fast greens, leading to a dramatic final leaderboard.

• Winner Ariya Jutanugarn finished with a 72-hole total of 276 (−8), securing her first U.S. Women's Open title and second major championship.
• The $4.5 million purse was the largest in the tournament’s history at the time, with $585,000 awarded to the winner.
• Shoal Creek, a private club founded in 1977, hosted its first U.S. Women's Open, having previously hosted two PGA Championships.
• Only 61 players advanced past the 36-hole cut, which was set at +6 (150), highlighting the course's difficulty.
• Kim Hyo-joo led after 54 holes but faltered on the final day, finishing second at −5, three shots behind Jutanugarn.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open follows a strict format governed by the USGA, combining open qualification with a rigorous 72-hole stroke play structure. Players must qualify either through sectional events or exemptions based on prior performance.

• Qualification Process:156 players earned entry via open qualifiers or exemptions, with over 1,000 applicants vying for spots globally.
• Course Length: Shoal Creek measured 6,643 yards with a par of 72, making it one of the longest setups in Women's Open history.
• Weather Impact: Rain delays affected the second round, compressing play and increasing mental and physical strain on competitors.
• Final Round Drama: Jutanugarn shot a steady 69 on Sunday, while challengers like Kim and Lexi Thompson made late mistakes.
• Historic Achievement: Jutanugarn became the first Thai golfer to win the U.S. Women's Open, elevating her world ranking to number two.
• Amateur Performance: American Yuka Saso, an amateur, finished tied for 10th at −1, signaling emerging global talent.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2018 U.S. Women's Open with recent editions in terms of venue, winner, and prize structure:

The 2018 tournament stood out for its increased purse and international winner, reflecting the growing global reach of women’s golf. Unlike 2017, which also had a −8 winning score, 2018 saw tighter competition with only three players finishing under par. The prize jump to $585,000 underscored the USGA’s commitment to gender equity in golf earnings.

Why It Matters

The 2018 U.S. Women's Open had lasting significance for the sport, both in terms of competitive milestones and cultural impact. It showcased the rising dominance of international players and the increasing parity in women’s golf across continents.

• Ariya Jutanugarn’s win inspired a new generation of golfers in Thailand and across Asia, boosting youth participation.
• The $4.5 million purse set a benchmark, pressuring other tours to raise prize money for women athletes.
• Extensive ESPN and Fox Sports coverage brought record viewership, especially during the dramatic final round.
• Shoal Creek’s history with past discrimination controversies made this inclusive event a symbolic moment of progress.
• The performance of amateurs and young players highlighted the depth of emerging global talent.
• USGA’s use of advanced course setup data influenced future major championship preparations.

This tournament not only crowned a champion but also advanced the visibility and professionalism of women's golf worldwide.