What Is 1946 US Women's Open

Overview

The 1946 U.S. Women's Open marked the inaugural edition of what would become one of the most prestigious championships in women's golf. Held from June 27 to June 30, 1946, it was organized by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and established as a national championship for female golfers.

This historic event set the foundation for future iterations of the tournament, introducing a competitive structure that highlighted the growing prominence of women in professional golf. The championship was conducted in a match play format, which differed from the stroke play used in later years.

• Patty Berg emerged as the first champion, defeating Betty Jameson in the 36-hole final by a score of 5 and 4, showcasing her dominance in the sport.
• The tournament was hosted at Spokane Country Club in Spokane, Washington, a course that provided a challenging layout for the 16-player field.
• As the inaugural event, the 1946 U.S. Women's Open helped legitimize women's professional golf and laid the groundwork for the LPGA, founded four years later in 1950.
• Unlike modern editions, the 1946 format featured a match play structure, where players competed head-to-head in elimination rounds rather than cumulative stroke scoring.
• The victory marked Patty Berg’s first U.S. Women's Open title, adding to her legacy as one of the 13 major championships she would win in her career.

How It Works

The 1946 U.S. Women's Open used a match play format, which determined the winner through a series of head-to-head contests rather than total strokes. This system emphasized head-to-head strategy and resilience under pressure, differing significantly from the stroke play format adopted in later years.

• Match Play Format:Players competed in head-to-head elimination rounds; the winner was determined by holes won, not total strokes, making each hole a standalone battle.
• 36-Hole Final: The championship match required players to complete 36 holes over one day, testing both endurance and consistency under intense conditions.
• Single-Elimination Bracket: The tournament used a 16-player bracket, with each round eliminating half the field until a champion was crowned.
• USGA Oversight: The United States Golf Association administered the event, ensuring standardized rules and fair play across all rounds and matches.
• Eligibility: Entry was limited to amateur and professional women golfers, though the field was small by modern standards, reflecting the era’s limited opportunities for female athletes.
• Historic Significance: As the first of its kind, the 1946 event set a precedent for future women’s majors and helped catalyze the formation of the LPGA in 1950.

Comparison at a Glance

The 1946 U.S. Women's Open differs significantly from modern editions in format, field size, and structure. The table below highlights key differences between the inaugural event and today’s championship.

These contrasts reflect the evolution of women’s golf from a niche amateur pursuit to a global professional sport. The 1946 tournament’s limited field and lack of prize money highlight the challenges early female golfers faced in gaining recognition and financial support.

Why It Matters

The 1946 U.S. Women's Open holds enduring significance as the starting point for one of women’s golf’s most important championships. It not only crowned a champion but also signaled the USGA’s commitment to recognizing female athletes on a national stage.

• Pioneering Legacy: The event established a national platform for women golfers, paving the way for future generations to compete at the highest level.
• Inspired the LPGA: The success of the 1946 Open contributed to the formation of the LPGA in 1950, with Patty Berg among its founding members.
• Historic First: As the inaugural champion, Patty Berg became a role model, inspiring young women to pursue careers in professional golf.
• Format Evolution: The shift from match play to stroke play in 1947 reflected a move toward consistency and fairness in determining champions.
• Gender Equity Milestone: The tournament marked a rare instance of equal recognition for female athletes in post-war American sports.
• Cultural Impact: The 1946 Open helped challenge stereotypes about women in sports, contributing to broader societal shifts in gender roles.

Today, the U.S. Women's Open is a cornerstone of the LPGA Tour, with millions in prize money and global viewership. Yet its roots remain firmly planted in the historic 1946 event that began it all.