What Is 26th U.S. Women's Open

Overview

The 26th U.S. Women's Open, held in 1971, was a pivotal moment in women's professional golf, marking both a transition in tournament structure and a milestone for one of the sport’s most dominant players. Kathy Whitworth, already a multiple-time major champion, captured her first and only U.S. Women's Open title at the Country Club of Rochester, a par-72 layout in upstate New York.

This edition of the Open was notable for being the final year that 36 holes of sectional qualifying were used to determine the field, a format that had been standard since the tournament’s early years. The event drew a 90-player field, including international competitors and rising stars, and was played under challenging weather conditions that tested even the most seasoned golfers.

• Kathy Whitworth won her first U.S. Women's Open title with a total score of 295 (+7), edging out runners-up Susie Berning and Sandra Palmer by two strokes.
• The tournament was held from June 24 to June 27, 1971, at the Country Club of Rochester in Rochester, New York, a course known for its tree-lined fairways and small greens.
• Whitworth’s victory made her the first player to win both the LPGA Championship and the U.S. Women's Open in the same calendar year, a rare achievement at the time.
• This was the last year the U.S. Women's Open used 36 holes of sectional qualifying, with future editions transitioning to 18-hole local qualifiers.
• The purse was $35,000, with Whitworth earning $5,000 as champion, reflecting the growing but still limited financial rewards in women’s professional golf.

How It Works

The 1971 U.S. Women's Open followed the standard format of a 72-hole stroke play championship, with 18 holes played each day over four days. The field was determined through a combination of exemptions and sectional qualifying, and the lowest 36-hole score won, with a playoff used in case of a tie.

• Format: The tournament used 72 holes of stroke play over four days. Each round tested players’ endurance and consistency under variable weather conditions.
• Qualifying: 36 holes of sectional qualifying were held across the U.S. This was the final year this format was used before switching to 18-hole locals.
• Field Size: 90 players competed, including 12 past champions and 18 qualifiers from sectional events. International representation included players from Japan and Australia.
• Course Setup: The Country Club of Rochester played at 6,217 yards with a par of 72. Thick rough and fast greens made scoring difficult even for top players.
• Weather Impact: Rain delayed the third round, causing a backlog of play. Players faced soggy conditions and soft fairways, affecting distance control.
• Playoff Rules: A sudden-death playoff was used if needed. No playoff occurred, as Whitworth won by two strokes with a final-round 73.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 26th U.S. Women's Open compares to other editions in terms of format, field size, and prize structure:

This comparison highlights the gradual increase in prize money and competitive depth over the late 1960s and early 1970s. The 1971 event reflected a growing professionalism in women’s golf, even as course conditions and scoring remained challenging.

Why It Matters

The 26th U.S. Women's Open holds historical significance not only for Kathy Whitworth’s breakthrough win but also as a turning point in the evolution of women’s major championships. It captured a moment when the LPGA was gaining visibility and legitimacy, even as disparities in funding and media coverage persisted.

• Whitworth’s win solidified her status as one of the leading players of the era, adding the U.S. Open to her seven other major titles.
• The end of 36-hole qualifying marked a shift toward more efficient tournament operations and broader accessibility for international entrants.
• Increased purse size from previous years reflected growing investment in women’s golf, though still far below men’s events.
• The tournament’s broadcast coverage, though limited, helped expand the sport’s audience during a critical growth period.
• Whitworth became a role model for aspiring female athletes, demonstrating long-term excellence and resilience in a male-dominated industry.
• The 1971 Open laid groundwork for future changes, including expanded fields and enhanced sponsorships in later decades.

Ultimately, the 26th U.S. Women's Open was more than just a championship—it was a milestone in the journey toward greater recognition and equity in women’s sports.