2024 U.S. Women’s Open: 5 Biggest Storylines to Follow

One of the most prestigious events in women’s golf is almost here! And it seems the 2024 edition promises to be no different. Starting Thursday, May 30, the U.S. Women’s Open is scheduled at Lancaster Country Club. The golfers will go head-to-head for the Tour’s highest purse, $12 million, and for the highly coveted Semple trophy. The competition will be fierce, and as it progresses, things will only heat up! Meanwhile, here are five key storylines to keep an eye on.

1. Lexi Thompson’s journey from the youngest qualifier to a veteran competitor

Lexi Thompson made history back in 2007 when, at just 12 years of age, she became the youngest-ever qualifier for this prestigious tournament. Now, nearly two decades later, she is set to compete in her 18th consecutive U.S. Women’s Open. Reflecting on her career, Thompson has seen highs and lows. One of her best moments would be winning the 2014 Chevron Championship, which made her the second-youngest women’s major champion to achieve that feat. 

“It always plays difficult. Tee shots are hard, and bunkers have a lot of sand and the rough is up really thick. It’s definitely a Major championship golf course.“ she said after the 2023 US Open. Despite missing the cut at Pebble Beach in her 17th US Women’s Open last year, the 11-time LPGA winner remains a formidable competitor. 

2. Lilia Vu’s struggles continue

After a stellar 2023 season with four wins, including two majors, Lilia Vu’s 2024 has been hit by back issues. Vu, currently World No. 2, has only managed seven starts this year and will be missing the 79th U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club. This also marks her second consecutive absence from a major tournament, as we saw during the 2024 Chevron Championship in April, and a fourth this year. 

Vu’s back problems have been a significant hindrance, causing her to miss several tournaments. Reflecting on her condition earlier this year, Vu admitted, “It’s been a little scary. I’ve definitely cried a lot on the range sometimes because my back just couldn’t hold up.” She said this in the pre-tournament press conference at the Chevron Championship.

3. Lydia Ko’s golden opportunity for the LPGA Hall of Fame

New Zealand’s Lydia Ko is on the brink of a historic achievement. Ranked No. 13 in the world, she needs just one more point to qualify for the LPGA Hall of Fame. The distinction only 34 players have earned since 1967. With 26 of the required 27 points, Ko’s next win will secure her a place among the legends of the game. 

However, the monumental feat is just a step away. Additionally, taking that step and fulfilling it has been quite a task for the 20-time Tour winner, as she has yet to secure a win following her first victory of the season. Ko revealed at the pre-match conference of the 2024 FORD Championship, “Being in the Hall of Fame was never really a big goal of mine; I didn’t think that I was maybe capable to be part of those players that’s already in the Hall of Fame.” Winning at Lancaster would not only be a significant personal milestone but also a testament to her consistency and career.

4. Hailey Davidson’s quest against the odds

Transgender golfer Hailey Davidson narrowly missed direct entry into the U.S. Women’s Open, finishing third at the Bradenton Country Club qualifier. Despite this setback, she clinched the first alternate position with a stunning 25-foot birdie putt in a playoff. As the first alternate, Davidson has a chance to compete if any qualifiers withdraw. 

“No matter what, NEVER GIVE UP!” she shared on Instagram, inspiring many with her story of perseverance. Davidson states, “I may not have been able to play in any tournaments these last couple of months but that didn’t stop me from continuing to put in the work… Now to cross my fingers and hope for the best!”. The golfer’s journey has been one of resilience and determination. But hope is the only thing she can do at the time. 

5. Nelly Korda’s battle for another title

Nelly Korda has been on a phenomenal run, winning six of her last seven starts. With back-to-back five in the first five starts, her wins also include the year’s first major, the Chevron Championship. The 25-year-old is currently the world’s No. 1 female golfer, no doubt, entering the U.S. Women’s Open with huge momentum. 

 After her 14 months of winless drought, she has made significant adjustments to her game this year, focusing more on preparation before tournaments and less on technique during competition. “Before, I would always be like, ‘When I’m at a tournament, it’s not my time to practice, it’s my time to play.’ But last year, I was out there practicing, doing drills, or doing extra because I thought I wasn’t performing well.” Korda explained. This shift has paid off, as she continues to dominate the Tour.

The 2024 U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club promises to be a thrilling event with the addition of these storylines. Keep an eye on these players as they navigate the challenges to attain glory in one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.