Over a decade after the 2014 U.S. Open, Michelle Wie West's win is still coming in handy as she looks to end her retirement.

The USGA gives all winners of this prestigious tournament a ten-year exemption. For Wie West, this meant that she could play in the U.S. Open until the end of the 2024 season.

Due to maternity leave, Wie West's exemption has been extended by two years to 2026. The 2014 champion stepped back from competing to concentrate on welcoming her daughter. As a result, the USGA modified her eligibility regarding the seasons in which she did not compete.

This policy ensures champions do not lose their playing rights due to starting a family. It offers a fair path for athletes moving between motherhood and professional sports.

In terms of past policy, the USGA has had a strict ten-year deadline, with no time for consideration. Following the examples of players like Stacy Lewis and Juli Inkster, who successfully balanced motherhood and competition, the USGA updated its policy guidelines.

For Wie West, it is the perfect opportunity to end her golf career on a high note.

Michelle Wie West Has a Clear Idea About What This Return Means

It all goes back to her retirement in 2022, when she chose to drop out after multiple injuries. When she returned to the course as part of her exemption in 2023, she failed to make the cut at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Following the event, Wie West stayed off the course, choosing to spend time with her family and her children. After that event, Wie West spent time with her family. Now, with a year of eligibility remaining, she announced her plan.

"With one final year of eligibility from my victory in 2014 and the Championship headed to an iconic venue that means so much to me, I am excited to announce that I’ll be teeing it up at the U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera in June!"

Read more at Club Golf!

Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar