The U.S. Women's Open is an annual golf competition that was established in 1946. As of 1953, the championship is sanctioned by the United States Golf Association (USGA), which is the governing body of the game in the United States. Previously, the event was played as the "Ladies" Open, and was sanctioned by the Women's Professional Golfers Association from 1946–1948. In addition, the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) sanctioned this tournament from 1949–1952. This event is one of the five women's major championships. The other major championships are the ANA Inspiration Championship, the LPGA Championship, the Women's British Open, and The Evian Championship. This event has always been played in stroke play with the exception of the first competition in 1946, and is currently th