The U.S. Women’s Amateur remains one of the most prestigious titles in the game, bringing together elite juniors, college stars, international standouts, and accomplished mid-amateurs in pursuit of one of amateur golf’s ultimate prizes. In 2026, the championship heads to Ooltewah, Tennessee, where players will compete for a place in the 156-player field at one of Pete Dye’s most revered designs.

How U.S. Women’s Amateur Qualifying Works

Unlike the men’s championship, the U.S. Women’s Amateur uses a single-stage qualifying process. Players compete in an 18-hole qualifier at sites held from mid-June through mid-July, and the top finishers from each site earn places in the championship field.

That format leaves no margin for error. With only one round to advance, every site becomes a high-pressure sprint, rewarding players who can post a number immediately. It is part of what makes U.S. Women’s Amateur qualifying so compelling each year: one standout round can send a player to one of the biggest championships in amateur golf.

The championship itself arrives with strong momentum. In 2025, Megha Ganne captured the title at Bandon Dunes, defeating Brooke Biermann 4 and 3 in the 36-hole final. That result only reinforces the stature of this event, which has served as a launching point for some of the biggest names in women’s golf.