Maja Stark, a 25-year-old golfer from Sweden, surprised many by winning the 80th U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin. Stark entered the tournament with low expectations but finished with a score of 7 under par, securing her first major title and becoming the third Swedish player to win this championship.
The tournament featured strong competition from world number one Nelly Korda and talented Japanese players including Rio Takeda, Mao Saigo, and Hinako Shibuno. Despite this, Stark maintained steady play and focus throughout the event, holding the lead until the end. She closed the final round with a 2-under 70, finishing two strokes ahead of Korda and Takeda.
Stark’s performance was consistent across all aspects of her game. She ranked fifth in putting, fourth in approach shots, and twentieth in driving accuracy for the week. Her caddie noted her ability to stay in the moment and make the right shots at crucial times. Stark avoided checking the leaderboard until late in the final round, helping her maintain focus and composure.
Before this victory, Stark had concerns about her game and wasn’t sure when she would play at her best again. This win marks a major milestone in her career and adds her name to the list of great Swedish champions alongside Liselotte Neumann and Annika Sorenstam. Stark expressed happiness and relief after securing the title and celebrated her success at Erin Hills.