What Is 1960 United States Women's Open

Overview

The 1960 United States Women's Open was a pivotal moment in women's golf history, marking the 15th edition of the championship and one of the most memorable victories by Betsy Rawls. Held at Worcester Country Club in Massachusetts, the tournament showcased elite skill under challenging conditions and solidified Rawls’ legacy as one of the sport’s early legends.

This edition was notable for its competitive depth and the resilience displayed by the field, particularly in hot and humid weather. The event attracted top players from across the country and served as a key milestone in the development of professional women’s golf during the mid-20th century.

• Location: The championship was held at Worcester Country Club, a course known for its tight fairways and small greens, increasing difficulty for long hitters.
• Dates: The tournament spanned from June 30 to July 3, 1960, concluding on Independence Day weekend, a traditional slot for the U.S. Women's Open.
• Winner:Betsy Rawls claimed victory with a total score of 292 (+12), the highest winning score in recent Open history due to tough course conditions.
• Margin of Victory: Rawls finished three strokes ahead of Joyce Ziske, who carded a 295 and represented one of the closest challenges of the decade.
• Historic Achievement: This win marked Rawls’ fourth U.S. Women's Open title, tying her with Babe Zaharias for the most at the time and setting a benchmark for future generations.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open operates under a rigorous format combining stroke play and qualifying criteria to ensure only the best compete. Run by the United States Golf Association (USGA), the tournament emphasizes fairness, difficulty, and tradition, with course setup designed to test every aspect of a golfer’s game.

• Format: The event uses 72 holes of stroke play over four days, with the lowest total score winning; ties are broken by an 18-hole playoff.
• Eligibility: Open to any female professional or amateur with a handicap index not exceeding 2.4, though most qualifiers are low-handicap or pro players.
• Course Setup: The USGA sets up courses to be long and challenging, with narrow fairways, thick rough, and fast greens to test precision.
• Qualifying: Players must advance through local and sectional qualifiers, with only about 100 of over 1,000 entrants making the final field.
• Prize Money: In 1960, the total purse was $10,000, with Rawls earning $1,750—a modest sum compared to modern standards.
• Amateur Participation: Amateurs may compete, but only professionals receive prize money; 1960 saw several top amateurs in the field, though none finished in the top five.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 1960 U.S. Women's Open to modern editions highlights dramatic changes in scoring, prize money, and player development.

The data shows a clear evolution in the sport: lower scores reflect improved equipment and training, while prize money and field size underscore the growth of women’s professional golf. The 1960 event laid groundwork for today’s global, high-stakes competition.

Why It Matters

The 1960 U.S. Women's Open was more than a tournament—it was a statement about perseverance, excellence, and the rising profile of women in sports. At a time when female athletes received little media attention, Rawls’ victory helped elevate the visibility of women’s golf and inspired future champions.

• Legacy of Betsy Rawls: Her fourth title solidified her as a dominant force, paving the way for future legends like Mickey Wright and Annika Sörenstam.
• Historical Benchmark: The 1960 Open is cited in USGA records as one of the last major wins before the era of televised golf began to reshape the sport.
• Gender Equity: Though prize money was low, the event contributed to early discussions about equal pay and recognition in women’s sports.
• Course Challenge: The high winning score of +12 demonstrated the USGA’s commitment to making the Open the most difficult test in women’s golf.
• Media Coverage: National newspapers covered the event, helping expand the audience for women’s professional golf beyond local markets.
• Inspiration: Rawls’ composure under pressure became a model for young players, influencing the next generation of female golfers.

Today, the 1960 U.S. Women's Open is remembered not just for who won, but for how it helped shape the future of women’s athletics. Its legacy endures in every modern championship where skill, strategy, and determination define the game.