What's happened
Maja Stark claimed her first U.S. Women’s Open title on June 1, 2025, finishing with a total score of 7-under 281. The Swedish golfer outperformed top-ranked Nelly Korda and Japan's Rio Takeda by two strokes at Erin Hills, marking a significant milestone in her career.
What's behind the headline?
Performance Highlights
- Stark shot an even-par 72 in the final round, maintaining her lead throughout the tournament.
- She finished with a total score of 7-under 281, securing a $2.4 million prize.
Competitive Landscape
- Nelly Korda, ranked No. 1 in the world, tied for second with Rio Takeda at 5-under, showcasing the competitive nature of the event.
- Stark's victory marks her as the first Swedish woman to win the U.S. Women’s Open since Annika Sorenstam in 2006.
Implications
- This win solidifies Stark's position as a key player in women’s golf, potentially leading to more sponsorship and media attention.
- The event highlighted the increasing competitiveness of women’s golf, with several players showing strong performances throughout the tournament.
What the papers say
According to AP News, Maja Stark's victory at the U.S. Women’s Open is significant as she becomes the sixth Swedish golfer to win an LPGA major, the first since Anna Nordqvist in 2021. The Guardian noted that Stark's performance was particularly impressive given the challenging conditions at Erin Hills, where many competitors struggled. The Japan Times highlighted Stark's mindset going into the final round, emphasizing her focus on playing freely rather than succumbing to nerves. This multifaceted coverage illustrates the importance of Stark's win not just for her career but for the representation of women in sports.
How we got here
Maja Stark, a 25-year-old golfer from Sweden, has been a rising star on the LPGA Tour. Prior to her victory, she had one LPGA title and was seeking her first major win. The U.S. Women’s Open is one of the most prestigious events in women’s golf.
Go deeper
- What does this win mean for Maja Stark's career?
- How did the other competitors perform?
- What challenges did the players face at Erin Hills?
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