Women’s Golf Claims Its Place at Historic Men’s Venues

Women’s Golf Claims Its Place at Historic Men’s Venues

June 4, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Health

For the first time in its history, Riviera Country Club is hosting a women’s tournament. This milestone occurs during the club’s centennial year, marking a significant shift for a venue long defined by its male champions.

The course, famously known as “Hogan’s Alley,” is home to a dark brown bust of Ben Hogan that overlooks the 18th green. For decades, the plaque at the base of this statue listed only men, but it will soon add a woman’s name.

A Shift in Strategy for the USGA

For years, the biggest events in women’s golf were often held at less-heralded courses. While men played at Pebble Beach, the USWO went to Cordevalle; while men played at Merion, the women played in Lancaster.

John Bodenhamer, the USGA chief championship officer, stated that strategies changed eight or nine years ago. The organization now prioritizes “America’s greatest venues” at the top of its pyramid.

Did You Know? Riviera’s epic 1st tee is the site where a 16-year-old Tiger Woods hit his first shot in a professional event.

Breaking the Venue Barrier

Morgan Pressel has long advocated for women to access the same historic courses where men made golf history. She argues that if the conversation is about equality and equity, it must include the playing fields.

The transition is not limited to the U.S. In Scotland, Royal Troon hosted its first Women’s Open in 2020, and Muirfield made its debut in 2022. The Old Course in St. Andrews first hosted the Women’s Open in 2007.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the move toward iconic venues is more than a logistical change; it is a symbolic elevation of the women’s game. By utilizing the same locker rooms and facilities as their male peers, female athletes are effectively claiming their place in the storied lineage of the sport.

The Road Ahead for Women’s Golf

The USGA has announced 17 of the next 22 USWO sites, many of which have hosted men for decades. Upcoming venues include Oakland Hills, Merion, and Shinnecock.

The historic women’s suffrage march on Washington – Michelle Mehrtens

The schedule includes a trip to Inverness Club in Toledo and Oakmont. In 2029, the women will play Pinehurst the week directly following the men’s U.S. Open.

Future Implications

This movement could be viewed as an “arms race” between golf’s governing bodies. The PGA of America has Congressional, Hazeltine, and Bethpage Black on its schedule.

In 2027, the R&A may further this trend by bringing women to Royal St. George’s for the first time. Such moves are likely to continue elevating the visibility and prestige of women’s professional golf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the current tournament at Riviera Country Club significant?
It is the first women’s tournament ever played at the club, occurring during the club’s centennial year and allowing a woman’s name to be added to the winner’s plaque beneath the Ben Hogan statue.

What was the previous trend regarding USWO venues?
Historically, women’s events were often held at less-heralded courses near iconic venues, such as playing at Sebonack instead of Shinnecock or Cordevalle instead of Pebble Beach.

Which other historic venues are slated to host women’s golf?
Upcoming sites include Inverness Club, Oakmont, Pinehurst, Oakland Hills, Merion, and Shinnecock, as well as Royal St. George’s in 2027.

Do you believe that playing at historic venues changes the way athletes perform or how the public perceives the sport?