What Is 1979 United States Women's Open

Overview

The 1979 United States Women's Open marked a historic moment in women's golf, serving as the 34th edition of the tournament sanctioned by the USGA. Held from July 12 to 15 at the Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield, Connecticut, it featured a challenging par-72 course measuring 6,273 yards, testing even the most seasoned professionals.

This edition stood out not only for its competitive field but also for its significance in career milestones. Kathy Whitworth, a dominant figure on the LPGA Tour, captured her first and only U.S. Women's Open title, cementing her legacy in golf history.

• July 12–15, 1979: The tournament spanned four days of intense play under humid summer conditions at Brooklawn, a course known for its tree-lined fairways and small greens.
• Kathy Whitworth, age 39: At nearly 40, Whitworth became the oldest winner of the U.S. Women's Open since 1959, defying expectations with consistent ball-striking and composure under pressure.
• Final score of 290 (+2): Whitworth’s four-round total included rounds of 72, 73, 71, and 74, showcasing her ability to stay within striking distance and capitalize on the final day.
• $25,000 first prize: The winner’s share was the largest in the tournament’s history to date, reflecting the growing financial stature of women’s professional golf.
• Brooklawn Country Club: A classic A.W. Tillinghast design, the Connecticut course provided a stern test with thick rough and fast greens, contributing to high scores across the field.

Winning Performance Breakdown

Kathy Whitworth’s victory was the culmination of decades of excellence, but it was far from easy. Entering the final round tied or near the lead, she held off challenges from rising stars and seasoned rivals alike, demonstrating nerves of steel on the back nine.

• Round 1 – 72 (E): Whitworth opened steadily with four birdies and four bogeys, positioning herself well in a tightly packed leaderboard featuring 12 players within four strokes.
• Round 2 – 73 (+1): A bogey on the 17th hole kept her from gaining ground, but her consistent iron play kept her in contention at 1-over through 36 holes.
• Round 3 – 71 (−1): Shooting under par in tough conditions, Whitworth moved into a tie for second, one stroke behind leader Jerilyn Britz, who led at 1-under.
• Final Round – 74 (+2): Despite a double bogey on the 14th, Whitworth birdied the 17th to finish at +2, relying on her short game to save par on critical holes down the stretch.
• One-stroke margin: Whitworth edged Britz by a single stroke, marking one of the closest finishes in U.S. Women's Open history up to that point.
• First million-dollar earner: With the prize money, Whitworth became the first female golfer to surpass $1 million in career earnings, a milestone celebrated across the sports world.

Comparison at a Glance

Key statistics and outcomes from the 1979 U.S. Women's Open compared to recent editions highlight changes in scoring, course setup, and prize structure over time.

The comparison underscores dramatic advancements in player athleticism, equipment, and tournament investment. While Whitworth’s +2 was winning in 1979, modern scoring reflects lower differentials due to technological improvements and course conditioning. The exponential growth in prize money also illustrates the rising commercial value of women’s golf.

Why It Matters

The 1979 U.S. Women's Open remains a landmark event for its blend of historical significance, personal achievement, and symbolic progress in women’s sports. It highlighted the longevity of elite athletes and validated decades of dedication in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

• Kathy Whitworth’s legacy: Her victory completed a near-complete set of major titles, solidifying her status as one of the greatest female golfers of all time.
• Million-dollar milestone: Becoming the first woman to earn $1 million in career earnings broke financial barriers and inspired future generations of athletes.
• Age-defying performance: At 39, Whitworth proved that experience and consistency could triumph over youth and power, reshaping perceptions of athletic longevity.
• Media attention: The tournament received increased coverage, helping elevate the profile of the LPGA and encouraging broader sponsorship interest.
• Course difficulty: Brooklawn’s design emphasized precision, reminding fans that course management remains critical even in the modern era.
• Historical context: Held during a pivotal decade for women’s rights, the win symbolized progress in gender equity within professional sports.

The 1979 U.S. Women's Open was more than just a golf tournament—it was a milestone moment that celebrated perseverance, excellence, and the evolving role of women in sports history.