What Is 1961 US Women's Open

Overview

The 1961 U.S. Women's Open was the 16th edition of the championship and a pivotal moment in women's golf history. Held at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, it showcased one of the sport’s most dominant players at her peak.

Mickey Wright claimed victory in dramatic fashion, overcoming tough competition and course conditions to win by a single stroke. Her performance solidified her status as one of the greatest female golfers of the era.

• Mickey Wright captured her second U.S. Women's Open title, having previously won in 1958, demonstrating remarkable consistency at the highest level.
• The tournament took place from July 13 to 15, 1961, during a time when women’s professional golf was gaining national visibility.
• Wright finished with a total score of 298 (+6) over four rounds, a testament to the challenging setup of Southern Hills’ layout.
• Runner-up Ruth Jessen shot 299, narrowly missing her first major title despite a strong final round push.
• The event was hosted at Southern Hills Country Club, a course known for its difficulty and later prominence in men’s major championships.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open operates under a rigorous format designed to test the best in women’s golf. Players compete over four 18-hole rounds, with the lowest cumulative score determining the champion.

• Format: The tournament uses a 72-hole stroke play format, with the lowest total score winning; ties after regulation lead to a playoff.
• Eligibility: Open to both amateur and professional female golfers, though most competitors are professionals on the LPGA Tour.
• Course Setup: Courses are selected for their challenge, often featuring narrow fairways, thick rough, and fast greens to test precision.
• Qualifying: Most players must go through sectional qualifying, though top-ranked players and past champions receive exemptions.
• History: First held in 1946, the U.S. Women's Open is one of the oldest and most prestigious events in women’s golf.
• Major Status: It is one of five designated majors in women’s golf, making it a key title for career legacy.

Comparison at a Glance

The 1961 U.S. Women's Open can be better understood by comparing it to other editions and major championships of the era.

The table highlights how tightly contested the U.S. Women's Open was during the early 1960s. Mickey Wright’s 1961 win was part of a dominant stretch in which she claimed four major titles between 1958 and 062. Her consistency under pressure set her apart from peers.

Why It Matters

The 1961 U.S. Women's Open was more than just another tournament—it was a milestone in the evolution of women’s professional golf. Wright’s victory reinforced the growing competitiveness and legitimacy of the LPGA.

• Mickey Wright became the first woman to win multiple U.S. Women's Opens in the 1960s, setting a benchmark for excellence.
• Her win contributed to her eventual total of eight major championships, a record at the time.
• The narrow margin of victory—just one stroke—emphasized the rising skill level among top female golfers.
• Television coverage and media attention were increasing, helping grow the visibility of women’s sports in the early 1960s.
• Wright’s aggressive iron play and mental toughness became a model for aspiring golfers.
• The 1961 event helped establish Southern Hills as a venue capable of hosting elite-level women’s championships.

Ultimately, the 1961 U.S. Women's Open stands as a testament to Mickey Wright’s dominance and the growing professionalism of women’s golf during a transformative decade.