Sports
2025 U.S. Women’s Open Tees Off at Erin Hills with History, High Stakes, and a Star-Studded Field
From Nelly Korda’s comeback bid to Yuka Saso’s historic title defense, the 80th edition of the U.S. Women’s Open promises drama, legacy moments, and world-class golf.
As the 80th U.S. Women’s Open gets underway at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin, the stage is set for one of the most competitive and compelling weeks in women’s golf. The oldest major in LPGA history brings together a star-studded field, iconic storylines, and the largest purse in the game, all played out on one of the most challenging courses on the tour.
Nelly Korda’s Road to Redemption
World No. 1 Nelly Korda enters the championship searching for her first win of the season. Though her stats remain strong—ranking second on the LPGA Tour in strokes gained total and off the tee—Korda hasn’t found her rhythm in 2025. Despite consistent top-25 finishes, her U.S. Open history has been rocky, including a disastrous 10-over 80 last year. But with renewed focus and a powerful pairing alongside Charley Hull and Lexi Thompson, Korda is ready to face the game’s toughest test.
Yuka Saso Eyes Rare Repeat
Defending champion Yuka Saso is chasing history of her own. The Japanese-Filipina golfer could become only the eighth player to defend the U.S. Women’s Open title successfully. Having already won this event in 2021 and 2024—under two different flags—Saso is chasing her third U.S. Open title and a place among the tournament’s legends. With two major wins and a poised mentality, she’s one of the favorites this week.
Lydia Ko and the Grand Slam Dream
Lydia Ko is on the cusp of history. A win this week would complete her career Grand Slam, joining an elite group of just seven other women who have achieved the feat. At just 27 years old, Ko has won three different majors, but the U.S. Open title has eluded her in 13 previous attempts. This year could be her moment.
Anna Nordqvist Joins the Slam Chase
Sweden’s Anna Nordqvist is also eyeing a personal milestone. With wins at the Women’s PGA, Evian, and British Open, Erin Hills represents her chance to complete the career Grand Slam. A strong performance here would place her among the all-time greats.
The Erin Hills Challenge
Hosting the Women’s Open for the first time, Erin Hills is already living up to its reputation. Stretching over 6,800 yards, with no water hazards but 132 bunkers and thick fescue rough, the course is a true test of skill and endurance. Weather will be a factor too—Friday’s thunderstorms and weekend winds may tip the scales in favor of more adaptable players.
“It’s very demanding off the tee,” said Korda. “The bunkers are tricky, and the greens are tough. It’s the kind of course that makes you earn everything.”
As the world’s best take on one of the game’s toughest tracks, the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open promises unforgettable moments, career-defining performances, and a potential rewriting of the history books.