The U.S. Women’s Open playoff is an exciting part of the tournament that often decides the winner in dramatic fashion. When players finish tied after the final round, the U.S. Women’s Open playoff determines the champion using a two-hole aggregate format, followed by sudden death if necessary.
Since 2018, the U.S. Women’s Open playoff follows a two-hole aggregate format. Tied players compete over two designated holes, and their total strokes determine the winner. For example, if Player A scores 4 and 3 (total 7) and Player B scores 4 and 4 (total 8), Player A wins the playoff.
If players remain tied after these two holes, the playoff switches to sudden death, with golfers playing hole by hole until a winner emerges.
Before this format change, the U.S. Women’s Open playoff was an 18-hole round, which could extend the tournament into Monday. The USGA adopted the two-hole playoff to make finishes more exciting and fast-paced, following the example of the men’s U.S. Open.
For fans, this means the playoff starts immediately after regulation play, with the course selecting which two holes to use. The sudden death format adds even more thrill if needed, creating intense moments filled with high stakes and unforgettable drama.
If you want to know more about golf scoring or the LPGA’s top players, check out our guides on how golf scoring works and top LPGA golfers to watch, where we break down key rules, player profiles, and tournament highlights.
Understanding the U.S. Women’s Open playoff format makes the final moments more thrilling for every golf fan. It’s a perfect mix of skill, nerves, and excitement, where every shot counts and champions are truly tested under pressure.
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