The diversity and depth showcases a new era for women’s golf
Watching the US Women’s Open showcased one clear factor: this is the most talented, diverse and deep field we have seen in a long time. It’s depth in talent is the best ever and more importantly, there has never been a more far reaching richness, diversity and inclusivity to the players on show.
I think we have moved into a new era where there is no one dominant force, you have more players vying for a first major, and more importantly, more players capable of delivering a victory, from across the globe. It makes this tournament not just exciting, but the Tour as a whole a very special place in the world of sport, not just golf.
I loved reading on the LPGA Tour website that Thailansd' Patty Tavatanakit, who won this year's ANA Inspiration, was the sixth consecutive first-time major winner and the twelfth in the last 15 Grand Slam events.
“I think we have moved into a new era where there is no one dominant force, you have more players vying for a first major, and more importantly, more players capable of delivering a victory, from across the globe”
While the last 12 first-time major winners in the last 15 majors have come from eight countries: Thailand, South Korea, Germany, Japan, Australia, England, Sweden and the United States. In comparison to this, from 1998 through to 2003, four future Hall of Famers won 18 of the 24 majors: Annika Sorenstam, Karrie Webb, Juli Inkster and Se Ri Pak. From 2001 through 2006, Sorenstam won eight of the 24 majors.
That’s why, this the 2021 US Open has more of a focus on the competition than one clear favourite or one clear in form player. It’s the ultimate showcase of where the women’s game has got too and just how competitive the field is and how far reaching across the globe it has become. The potential list of Hall of Famers at the tournament is in the double digits. It feels like this is the beginning of a huge growth period for the Tour, and interest in what is arguably the most competitive and diverse golf tour on the planet.
With one final note, Mel Reid leading after day one and pre-tournament putting the Pride emblem front and centre, proudly flying the flag for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month, is the perfect embodiment of progressiveness in golf. Let’s hope the rest of golf follows her lead.
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