What Is 33rd U.S. Women's Open

Overview

The 33rd edition of the U.S. Women's Open took place in 1978, continuing the tradition of showcasing the world's top female golfers in a grueling 72-hole stroke-play format. Held at the Country Club of Rochester in Rochester, New York, the tournament drew a competitive field aiming to claim one of the most prestigious titles in women's golf.

That year, Hollis Stacy emerged victorious, solidifying her status as a dominant force in women’s golf during the late 1970s. Her win marked her third U.S. Women's Open title in just four years, having previously triumphed in 1977 and 1974, and demonstrated her consistency under pressure on one of golf’s biggest stages.

• Location: The event was hosted at the Country Club of Rochester, a course known for its tree-lined fairways and challenging greens, which tested players' precision and endurance.
• Winner: Hollis Stacy claimed victory with a total score of 292 (+4), finishing 3 strokes ahead of JoAnne Carner, who placed second.
• Prize money: The total purse was $150,000, with $30,000 awarded to Stacy as champion, reflecting the growing financial recognition of women's professional golf.
• Historical context: This was the first U.S. Women's Open held in New York since 1965, marking a return to a state with deep roots in American golf history.
• Significance: Stacy's win made her the first player since Betsy Rawls in the 1950s to win three U.S. Women's Open titles in a span of four years.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open follows a standardized structure designed to identify the most resilient and skilled golfer over four days of competition. Qualifying rounds, course setup, and scoring all contribute to a rigorous test of ability and mental toughness.

• Format: The tournament consists of 72 holes of stroke play over four days, with a 36-hole cut reducing the field after the second round to the top 60 players and ties.
• Qualification: Players qualify through sectional tournaments or by meeting exemption criteria, such as past champions, top LPGA performers, and leading amateurs.
• Course setup: The USGA designs the course to emphasize accuracy, with narrow fairways, thick rough, and fast, undulating greens that demand precise shot-making.
• Scoring: Each stroke is counted, and the player with the lowest total score after 72 holes wins; in case of a tie, a playoff determines the champion.
• USGA oversight: The United States Golf Association organizes the event, enforcing strict rules and ensuring fair play across all aspects of the competition.
• Amateur participation: Top female amateurs are eligible, and up to 15 have competed in recent years, with some making the cut and earning recognition.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 33rd U.S. Women's Open with other notable editions in the tournament's history.

This table illustrates the progression of scoring and prize money over the decade. By 1978, the U.S. Women's Open had seen a steady increase in both competitiveness and financial rewards, reflecting the growth of women's professional golf during the 1970s.

Why It Matters

The 33rd U.S. Women's Open was a pivotal moment in women's sports history, highlighting both individual excellence and the broader evolution of professional golf for women. Hollis Stacy’s repeat victory underscored the rising standards of play and the increasing depth of talent in the LPGA.

• Legacy of Hollis Stacy: Her third title in four years established her as one of the era’s most accomplished players, joining an elite group of multi-time champions.
• Media attention: The 1978 event received expanded television coverage, helping to grow the visibility of women's golf across the United States.
• Prize growth: The $30,000 winner’s share reflected a doubling of the top prize since 1974, signaling increased investment in women’s sports.
• Role models: Stacy’s success inspired a new generation of female golfers, including future stars like Nancy Lopez and Patty Sheehan.
• USGA commitment: Hosting the event in Rochester demonstrated the USGA’s dedication to rotating venues and expanding the tournament’s national footprint.
• Historical benchmark: The 1978 Open is remembered as a turning point when women’s golf began gaining greater respect and institutional support.

Today, the 33rd U.S. Women's Open stands as a milestone in the history of women's athletics, representing both personal achievement and the broader progress of gender equity in sports.