Jennifer Kupcho Embraces Parental Advice, Leads U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera

LOS ANGELES — After facing a series of disappointing finishes at the U.S. Open, Jennifer Kupcho finally heeded her parents' suggestion to familiarize herself with the course ahead of the tournament. The 29-year-old golfer had previously dismissed the idea but decided to make an exception since the U.S. Women’s Open is being held at Riviera Country Club this year, not far from where she played in the JM Eagle LA Championship in April.

Playing a round at Riviera with friends who are members there proved beneficial for Kupcho. She showcased her preparation on Thursday, carding an impressive five-under 66 to take a one-stroke lead after the first round. “I think my parents have always pushed me like, ‘Hey, why don't you go try and see the golf course beforehand?’” Kupcho reflected. “I was like, ‘No, I don't do that. I never do that for any other tournament. Why would I change that for the U.S. Open?’”

However, the familiarity with the course paid off as she navigated her way around with confidence. “When I showed up this week, I knew where everything was, I knew what I was doing,” she noted. “So I think it actually helped. Parents are always right, right?” Kupcho smiled, crediting her success to her preparation and a supportive host family.

While winning a major presents its own challenges, Kupcho is well aware of what it takes, having claimed her first LPGA victory at the 2022 Chevron Championship. Following her strong start, Sei Young Kim sits in second place with a score of 67, while five other competitors are two strokes behind.

Beginning her round with three consecutive birdies, Kupcho hit nine fairways and 12 greens in regulation, needing only 26 putts—a statistic that tied her for the best of the day. Her highlight came at the short par-3 16th, where she nearly achieved a hole-in-one. “I just see an 8-iron aimed straight at the [TV] tower, and I hit it straight at the flag,” she described, reliving the moment with her caddie.

This round marks the first time Kupcho has led at the U.S. Women’s Open, and it’s her ninth major round of 66 or lower, tying her with Minjee Lee for the most since 2019. Although she has secured four LPGA wins, the U.S. Open has historically posed a challenge for her. Reflecting on her earlier visit to Riviera, she said, “We didn't really talk that much about the golf course. It was kind of just having fun,” emphasizing the importance of feeling comfortable before the competition. When asked if she would text her parents to acknowledge their wisdom, she chuckled, noting, “The funny thing is they have never missed a U.S. Open either, and they're not here this week.”