The US Women’s Open at Erin Hills this week marks a significant moment for Minjee Lee as she seeks to overcome last year’s putting struggles. Lee, who won major titles at Evian in 2021 and Pine Needles in 2022, faced difficulties with her putter during the final nine holes of the previous US Women’s Open, leading to a tie for ninth place.
Lee’s coach, Ritchie Smith, suggested trying a broomstick putter after her performance issues became apparent. “We needed time to actually apply a bit of training to it and actually educate ourselves on it because a broomstick’s a different beast,” Smith explained. Lee chose not to seek advice from others, trusting Smith’s approach instead. “He may have spoken to a couple of people about the fundamentals… but for me, personally, I didn’t really speak to anyone,” she said.
Over time, Lee adapted to the new putter style, which improved her confidence and performance. She noted that while initially challenging, using the broomstick putter became easier with practice: “I don’t think I took to it straight away but it’s getting easier and easier.”
Statistics from 2025 reflect Lee’s improvement. Previously ranked no higher than 127th in Strokes Gained: Putting on the LPGA Tour since 2021, she is now tied for ninth place. Additionally, she ranks 21st in putts per green in regulation and 12th in Strokes Gained: Off The Tee.
Having taken a two-week break to refine her swing with Smith, Lee is optimistic about competing at Erin Hills under USGA conditions. “Because of the coverage, I saw so much of it on TV so it became the one I’ve always wanted to win,” she said.
The tournament will be broadcast live on Fox Sports and Kayo over four days.
