Why did the USGA choose December?
After careful consideration of options and in conjunction with our partners at the LPGA Tour and Fox, we determined Dec. 10–13 was the best opportunity for the U.S. Women’s Open to receive the attention it deserves. Champions Golf Club’s 36-hole facility and southern weather enabled us to even consider this option. The U.S. Women’s Open has the most network coverage of any women’s major and keeping that intact for the visibility of the players and sport was of the utmost importance to the USGA.
What kind of course conditions can we expect in December?
Golf is played year-round in Houston. The previous five years have produced an average high of 65 degrees and average low of 45 degrees in the month of December. The high temperature during that period was 84 degrees and the low 30 degrees. While turf conditions may be slightly different than what we anticipated in early June, we are confident in the partnership between the club’s staff and the USGA Green Section to produce a quality playing surface.
Will playing two golf courses appropriately identify a true champion?
Every player will compete under similar conditions. While it is unprecedented for the U.S. Women’s Open opening rounds to be conducted on two golf courses, this tactic is employed at many other events with either large fields or daylight challenges. It remains a priority to give the maximum amount of players the opportunity to compete for the title of champion and access to the highest purse in women’s golf.
Is Jackrabbit an appropriate co-host course?
The USGA believes Jackrabbit offers a stern test of golf that will complement the Cypress Creek Course as a co-host during rounds 1 and 2. We will endeavor to create green speeds and overall playing conditions on both courses that mirror one another and provide a comprehensive test of golf.
How will this affect exemption categories?
The USGA is examining all exemption categories and is aware quite a few will be impacted by the date change. Any changes will be communicated to all players as soon as possible.
How will this affect qualifying?
As we previously announced, the original schedule of qualifying dates and sites was canceled due to CDC and World Health Organization guidelines. With a December championship, we do expect to be able to hold qualifying throughout the world. Dates and potentially new locations will be announced at a later time.
If I have already applied to play, do I have to apply again for the new date?
Non-exempt players who applied for qualifying have been issued a full refund and will need to re-apply once the revised qualifying plan is announced and entries are released. Exempt players who have registered for the U.S. Women’s Open Championship will remain registered. Those exempt players who do not wish to participate on the new dates can request a full refund by emailing champs@usga.org.
I have not yet applied to play. When will entries open for the December championship?
The entry open date and entry close date will be announced along with the revised qualifying plan. There will be ample time for all players to have an opportunity to apply for qualifying and the championship.
When and where will qualifying be conducted?
We do not yet have an updated qualifying calendar, but we are working closely with Allied Golf Associations and International Federations to rebuild a schedule that celebrates the openness of the U.S. Women’s Open field but also keeps the health and safety of all top of mind.
I entered qualifying but can no longer do it OR do not wish to try this year. How can I get a refund for my entry?
All players who registered for qualifying have been issued a full refund and will be notified via e-mail when the refund has been processed. All refunds will be processed in 10-12 business days.
Can I play practice rounds on Jackrabbit? How many?
Yes, both advance and championship week practice rounds will be available on Jackrabbit. For the full practice round policy, please click here.
When will I receive more information regarding the championship?Information about accommodations, courtesy cars and transportation will be shared with exempt players and agents in mid-summer. Please direct immediate questions to Sara Taylor at uswoplayerservices@usga.org.
What will happen to the Reunion of Champions and other 75th anniversary celebrations that were planned for the USWO?
We are still very excited to celebrate what is a milestone anniversary for the U.S. Women’s Open. This celebration will come to life through onsite activities for fans, special opportunities for players, exclusive content created for both USGA and Fox channels, and other commemorative celebrations. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the affects of COVID-19, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the Reunion of Champions to 2021. We look forward to gathering all of our champions for a special reunion event at The Olympic Club next June.