What Is 1973 United States Women's Open

Overview

The 1973 United States Women's Open was a pivotal moment in women's golf history, marking the 28th edition of the tournament. Hosted at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club in Columbus, Ohio, it brought together top professionals and amateurs under challenging summer conditions.

The event showcased resilience and precision, with Susie Berning capturing her fourth U.S. Women's Open title. Her victory placed her in elite company and underscored the competitive depth of women's golf during the 1970s.

• July 12–15, 1973: The tournament spanned four days, with intense heat affecting scoring conditions throughout the week.
• Susie Berning: At age 30, Berning claimed her fourth U.S. Women's Open title, matching Babe Zaharias’ historic record.
• Jack Nicklaus Golf Club: Designed by the legendary golfer, the course measured 6,266 yards with a par of 72.
• Final score: Berning finished at 297 (+9), three strokes ahead of Kathy Whitworth, who shot 300.
• Prize money: The winner received $6,500 from a total purse of $100,000, reflecting the growing financial recognition in women’s golf.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open operates under strict USGA regulations, combining stroke play format with rigorous course setup standards. Players compete over 72 holes, with the lowest total score winning.

• 72-Hole Stroke Play: The tournament consists of four rounds; only the top 60 players after 36 holes advance to the weekend.
• Course Setup: The 1973 layout featured narrow fairways and fast greens, emphasizing accuracy over distance.
• Amateur Eligibility: Qualified amateurs could enter, but only professionals competed in the final rounds that year.
• Weather Impact: High temperatures and humidity led to slower play and higher scores across the field.
• Scoring Rules: The USGA enforced strict rules on penalties, including a one-stroke penalty for grounding the club in bunkers.
• Playoff Format: If two or more players tied after 72 holes, an 18-hole playoff was scheduled for the following day.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 1973 U.S. Women's Open to modern editions highlights significant evolution in format, prize money, and player demographics.

The data shows a dramatic increase in course length and scoring efficiency over 50 years. Modern players benefit from advanced equipment and training, leading to lower scores and higher competitiveness. Prize money has increased over 275-fold, reflecting the sport’s commercial growth.

Why It Matters

The 1973 U.S. Women's Open was more than a tournament—it was a milestone in the professionalization of women's golf. Berning’s victory inspired a generation of female athletes and highlighted the importance of longevity in sports.

• Historic Achievement: Susie Berning became the third woman to win four U.S. Women's Opens, joining Babe Zaharias and Louise Suggs.
• Role Model Impact: Her success encouraged young girls to pursue competitive golf despite societal barriers.
• Media Coverage: The event received national attention, boosting visibility for the LPGA Tour.
• Course Design Legacy: Jack Nicklaus’ layout demonstrated that women could handle challenging, strategic courses.
• Equality Milestone: Though still underfunded, the 1973 purse signaled progress toward gender parity in sports.
• Enduring Records: Berning’s fourth title remains one of the most significant achievements in women’s golf history.

The 1973 U.S. Women's Open stands as a testament to perseverance and excellence, bridging the early days of women’s golf with its modern, high-profile era.