What Is 2011 US Women's Open

Overview

The 2011 U.S. Women's Open marked a pivotal moment in women’s professional golf, showcasing rising international talent and challenging course conditions. Held at The Broadmoor East Course in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the tournament tested players with high altitude and fast greens, contributing to a tightly contested leaderboard.

South Korea’s So Yeon Ryu emerged victorious after defeating fellow countrywoman Hee Kyung Seo in a dramatic three-hole playoff. This win marked Ryu’s first major championship and highlighted the growing dominance of South Korean players on the LPGA Tour.

• July 7–10, 2011 were the official dates of the tournament, making it the 66th edition of the U.S. Women's Open, a record-setting event for attendance and international participation.
• The Broadmoor East Course, located at over 6,000 feet above sea level, created unique playing conditions due to reduced air density, affecting ball trajectory and distance.
• So Yeon Ryu entered the final round trailing but shot a steady 1-over 71 to finish regulation at +2 (282), tying Hee Kyung Seo for the lead.
• The playoff format consisted of a three-hole aggregate, with Ryu winning after posting scores of 4-4-3 to Seo’s 4-5-5, sealing victory on the 18th hole.
• Ryu earned a winner’s share of $585,000 from the $3.9 million purse, the largest in U.S. Women's Open history at the time, reflecting the tournament’s growing prestige.

How It Works

The U.S. Women's Open operates under strict USGA regulations, combining stroke play over four rounds with a playoff format in case of ties. The 2011 edition followed this structure, with cut rules and scoring procedures ensuring fair competition.

• Eligibility: Players must meet USGA criteria, including professional status or a handicap not exceeding 2.4. In 2011, 156 golfers qualified through sectional and open entries.
• Course Setup: The Broadmoor was set at 7,088 yards with a par of 70, making it one of the longest setups in Women's Open history due to high-altitude adjustments.
• Altitude Impact: At over 6,000 feet, balls flew 10–15% farther, forcing players to adjust club selection and approach shots, particularly on long par 4s and 5s.
• Final Round Cut: After 36 holes, the field was cut to top 60 and ties, with 73 players advancing, a larger-than-average cut due to weather delays early in the week.
• Playoff Rules: A three-hole aggregate playoff was used, a format introduced in 2011 to replace sudden death, with Ryu winning by two strokes over Seo across the holes.
• Prize Distribution: The $3.9 million purse awarded 5.5% to the winner, with even the last-place finisher earning $21,800, underscoring the event’s financial significance.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 2011 U.S. Women's Open to recent editions highlights key differences in scoring, course conditions, and prize structure.

The 2011 event stands out for its high-altitude challenge and relatively lower scoring conditions compared to sea-level venues. While prize money has since increased significantly, the 2011 tournament was a milestone in globalizing the sport, with two South Koreans in the playoff and 12 international finalists.

Why It Matters

The 2011 U.S. Women's Open had lasting implications for the LPGA and women’s golf, symbolizing the sport’s international evolution and the rising competitiveness of younger players.

• Global Talent Rise: The top-two finish by South Korean golfers highlighted the shift in dominance toward Asian players, a trend that continues in modern LPGA rankings.
• Altitude as a Factor: The Broadmoor’s elevation made it one of the most unique U.S. Women’s Open venues, prompting new training approaches for high-altitude play.
• Playoff Format Change: The 2011 use of a three-hole aggregate was a test for future USGA events, influencing later decisions on tiebreakers.
• Media Exposure: Broadcast viewership increased by 12% over 2010, partly due to the dramatic playoff and international storylines.
• Legacy for Ryu: This win launched So Yeon Ryu’s career, leading to multiple LPGA titles and solidifying her as a top-10 player for years.
• Course Design Impact: The Broadmoor’s setup influenced how future Open courses are prepared, especially in managing fast greens and wind exposure.

The 2011 U.S. Women's Open remains a landmark event for its competitive drama, international representation, and influence on tournament design. It underscored the growing depth of talent in women’s golf and set a precedent for future championships held in challenging environments.