Annika Sorenstam came into the sixth U.S. Senior Women’s Open feeling confident in her game, but left disappointed after an opening even-par 71 at Fox Chapel Golf Club. She felt she played too cautiously and lacked courage on the course. Despite this, Sorenstam is optimistic that if even par turns out to be her worst round of the week, she will be okay. She is currently trailing Japan’s Kaori Yamamoto by four strokes in Pittsburgh.
Sorenstam, a past champion of the event, is one of five former winners in the field. Leta Lindley, who has finished as a runner-up in her last two appearances, sits in fourth place after an opening round of 69. Sorenstam, who resides in Orlando, has spent the past two months at her family’s Lake Tahoe home and planned to take a cold plunge after her round. The extreme heat in Pittsburgh led to a woman fainting while Sorenstam’s group was teeing off, prompting her son Will to assist.
While the focus is on the leaderboard, there is also interest in JoAnne Carner, the oldest player in the championship at 85 years old. Carner, an eight-time USGA champion, aims to break her age every year at this event. Despite carding a 14-over 85, Carner managed to accomplish this feat for the seventh time. However, her goal for the week was to make the cut, and she struggled with three double-bogeys on the back nine.
Carner expressed her dissatisfaction with her performance, citing poor putting and swing issues during the round. A legendary figure in women’s golf, Carner turned professional at the age of 30 and won 43 times on the LPGA Tour, including two U.S. Women’s Opens. She had a significant impact on players like Nancy Lopez and Beth Daniel, helping them improve their game and sharing her wisdom with fellow competitors.
Despite facing challenges with her distance off the tee, Carner believed she was trending positively heading into the championship after a recent lesson. She expressed a desire to regain her previous driving distance of 220 yards, currently averaging between 205 and 210 yards. The course at Fox Chapel Golf Club presented a tough test for Carner, who acknowledged the need for more practice rounds.
Looking ahead, Carner mentioned the possibility of relaxing with a drink after the round, reflecting on the day’s challenges and experiences. Despite her disappointment with her performance, Carner’s competitive spirit and passion for the game continue to inspire players of all ages. As one of the most iconic figures in women’s golf, JoAnne Carner’s resilience and determination serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy she has built over her illustrious career.
