The 2024 US Women’s Open ended with a twist. The final day at Lancaster Country Club saw the title race, initially led by a three-way battle between Andrea Lee, Minjee Lee, and Wichanee Meechai after Saturday’s round. However, the Sunday showdown had different plans. It gave us the ultimate winner, Yuka Saso, as she finished with a 4-under-par 276, claiming her second US Women’s Open.

Well, this was a heartbreaking moment for Minjee Lee, who finished at T9, and other potential contenders. But the golfer kept that aside and cheered for Saso, just like any friend would! Amy Rogers, an award-winning multimedia journalist, shared on her X handle a heartwarming incident that signifies the amount of respect the golfing pair has for each other.

In the photo, Minjee Lee and Yuka Saso’s father were standing there for Saso as she was giving her winner’s interview. This gesture describes the bond both of them have, even if she is not on the winning side.

“It feels great. I think winning in 2021 I represented the Philippines. I feel like I was able to give back to my mom. This year I was able to represent Japan, and I think I was able to give back to my dad. I’m very happy that I was able to do it. It’s just a wonderful feeling that I was able to give back to my parents in the same way,” said an emotional Saso at the prize ceremony.

Even after showing a brilliant performance, the coveted title slipped from Minjee Lee’s hands. She led by three shots on the front nine, but on the par-3 12th, a hole that troubled everyone this week, she shot her tee shot into the water and carded a double bogey. She was then tied with Saso. The golfer then hit into the waist-high grass two holes later for another double bogey and closed with a 78.

After Saso put her final on the green, and as she directed back to the house, they both hugged each other. Lee congratulated her and seemed happy for the two-time US Women’s Open winner. Golf fans appreciated the professional act that Lee showed even after her disheartening loss. 

How the golf community reacted to Lee’s act

One fan showed his appreciation for Lee as he commented, “Classy Minjee, classy 👏 👏👏😊” Another fan added to her act by saying, “All class by Minjee…well done girl”. This gesture spoke volumes about her sportsmanship, further solidifying her reputation as a class act. Her behind-the-scenes is liked by fans, as another added, “ClassAct!”                                                                           

“Saso and Shibuno seem close friends, too.” said a fan, reflecting on his observation of Saso and the runner-up fellow Japanese Hinako Shibuno’s friendship. Yuka Saso celebrated with Chun and Shibuno, nicknamed “Smiling Cinderella” after Andrea Lee failed to get up and down for par from a greenside bunker at 17.  Also, Shibuno, showing their close bond, joked, “I will ask Yuka to buy me something.”

One fan said, “Today wasn’t Minjee’s day, but there will be many more ahead for her. As always, she handled herself with class. This photo tells a lovely story” Reflecting on her Sunday’s play, the X user also acknowledged her act of kindness, mentioning the future possibilities the golfer has. As she showed in her performance in the previous tournaments too this year, making the cut in 6 of the 9 she has participated in so far.

Share your thoughts on Minjee Lee’s sportsmanship and Yuka Saso’s incredible win at the 2024 US Women’s Open in the comments section below.