The 2024 AIG Women’s Open is set to get underway tomorrow at the world-renowned Old Course at St Andrews.
The iconic course, often referred to as the “Home of Golf” provides a fitting stage for the final major of the year. Rooted in history, the challenging layout and unpredictable weather promise a competitive week of golf as the world’s best vie for the prestigious title.
The Old Course: A Test of Tradition and Skill
St Andrews is known worldwide by avid golfers and fans alike. Established in the early 15th century, the Old Course is renowned for its unique features that test even the most seasoned links golfer.
Although the fairways may appear wide and forgiving, the bunkering, undulating greens and complex weather and wind conditions demand a strength of mentality as much skill of the game.
The 17th, one of the most famous holes in golf known as the “Road Hole”, will be sure to play a crucial part in the championship. The infamous par 4 requires a blind tee shot over the Old Course Hotel onto a narrow fairway, with the tricky Road Hole bunker guarding the green — making it a do-or-die hole when it comes to the final round.
The Old Course features expansive putting surfaces, including large double greens shared by two holes. Wayward shots can often leave lengthy, challenging putts and approach shots wherein a lag putt or solid up and down is the best a golfer can hope for.
The Swilican Bridge on the 18th, a historic landmark in the game of golf, will see many players take a moment to reflect on their rounds and even careers, as they follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest ever to do it before them.
AIG Women’s Open: Players to Watch
The 2024 AIG Women’s Open will feature a stellar field of competitors, each hoping to bring their “A” game to the challenging Old Course. Some of the key players to watch include:
Nelly Korda: The world number one, 2020 Olympic gold medalist and two-time major champion will be hoping to add the Women’s Open to her already exceptional title list. Korda’s effortless swing, powerful drives and precise iron play are well-suited to St Andrews, where accuracy is of utmost importance. Her already proven ability to handle pressure makes her a strong contender at the Home of Golf.
Lydia Ko: This year’s Olympic Gold winner and former world number one will enter this week with a renewed sense of confidence. The two-time major champion showed excellent form in Paris and alongside a sharp short game, Ko’s strategic approach to the Old Course’s greens will be a crucial asset in her search for a first Open Championship.
Lilia Vu: World number two and last year’s Women’s Open champion will be sure to fancy her chances this week. With two majors already under her belt, Vu’s steady ball striking and exceptional short game puts her in good stead for the demanding layout of the Old Course, where creativity around the greens will be paramount.
Jin Young Ko: With a calm demeanour and exceptional putting skills, the world number three has the ability to navigate the tricky conditions at St Andrews. The two-time major winner carries a lot of experience on the biggest stage, with runner-up finishes at the Women’s PGA Championship, US Women’s Open and Women’s Open, making her a player to watch at this week’s event.
As always, a major event at the Home of Golf promises excitement, drama and exceptional viewing. The juxtaposition of uniqueness and familiarity at St Andrews is what makes the Old Course a Mecca for golfers and fans around the world.
With a new name waiting to be etched into the history books, the AIG Women’s Open at St Andrews is set to be another stunning showcase of women’s golf, with the best in the world battling it out on the most iconic of stages.
