Michelle Wie West Returns to the U.S. Open

Photo: Michelle Wie West. Credit: LPGA & Getty Images

Michelle Wie West is back—at the U.S. Women’s Open, that is. And while much has changed since she last competed in 2023, her competitive edge remains. Now a mother of two, the five-time LPGA Tour winner and 2014 U.S. Women’s Open champion returns with a new perspective, and the same desire to win.

Ahead of her return to the championship, she shares more with Women’s Golf Magazine.

What does it mean to return to the U.S. Women’s Open, especially at Riviera, at this stage in your life and career?

Coming back to the U.S. Women’s Open at this point in my life feels incredibly full-circle.  I’m in such a different phase now and getting the chance to compete at Riviera, a venue with so much history and one that holds a special place in my heart, feels like a gift. My father-in-law (Jerry West) was a member at Riviera and I actually hosted a big outing with my family and friends there when my husband and I got married. 

You’ve experienced this championship as a winner—what feels different about how you’re approaching it this time around?

Winning the U.S. Women’s Open was the highlight of my playing career. 2014 wasn’t that long ago, but it feels like a lifetime—back then, I was singularly focused on performance—every rep, every stat, every tiny detail. This time, I certainly won’t be measuring success by my position on the leaderboard. I’ve definitely been grinding and trying to get my game in a great place, but I’ll go into the week looking to enjoy the experience, the challenge, and savor the moment.

How has becoming a mother changed the way you approach competition and preparation?

Motherhood changed everything in the best way. It gave me a bigger purpose and a clearer sense of what truly matters. Before, golf was my whole identity; now it’s just one part of who I am. My preparation is more intentional and efficient because time is so precious. I don’t sweat the small stuff as much, and I’m more patient with myself.  I want to show my kids that hard work and a passion for the game does matter, but that you can pursue big dreams while staying grounded in what’s really important.

What does it mean to have your daughter see you compete on a stage like this? What do you hope she learns from watching you?

Makenna was in a stroller when I last played competitively at the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach.  This time around, she’ll be walking outside the ropes and she actually plays the game—she understands it.  While she may not grasp the magnitude of the championship, it will be amazing for her to see me inside the ropes and the joy I get from competing. I am excited for her to see, at a young age, that women belong on the biggest stages and that she can dream big, just like everyone else who will be in the field that week.

What ultimately led to the decision to tee it up in this year’s U.S. Women’s Open?

It was a combination of timing, emotion, and opportunity.  This is my final year of eligibility following my victory in 2014 at Pinehurst, and when the USGA announced Riviera as the host, this one was always circled on my calendar as one I wanted to be a part of.  It will be a fitting final bow on my competitive career, and I can’t wait to tee it up at a championship and venue that both mean the world to me.

Photo: Michelle Wie West. Credit: LPGA & Getty Images