By Liam Morgan |
A seven-figure prize will be on offer for the winner of the United States Women’s Open for the first time at this year’s edition of the women’s Major in Illinois.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) confirmed the player who lifts the trophy Country Club of Charleston on Sunday (June 2), providing they are a professional, will receive $1 million.
The total prize pot for the tournament, the second major on the women’s circuit, is $5.5 million, $500,000 more than last year’s competition.
“The USGA is committed to providing an unparalleled experience to every player competing in its championships,” John Bodenhamer, senior managing director of championships at the USGA, said.
Bodenhamer added: “Through strategic investments in our player relations programme, we are continuing the effort to create a competitor experience commensurate with the game’s most prestigious championships, and that includes an increased purse and a continued commitment to make playing in an Open championship unforgettable for the world’s top amateur players.”
World number one Ko Jin-young of South Korea will be aiming to build on her success at the ANA Inspiration in March, where she claimed her first Major title.
Defending champion Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand has also entered the event, along with American world number eight Lexi Thompson, third at the ANA Inspiration.
The tournament is due to begin with the first round tomorrow and conclude on Sunday (June 2).
Republished with permission from insidethegames.biz.