Ji clinches US Open on closing birdie

BETHLEHEM, Pennsylvania – Eun Hee Ji of South Korea made a 20-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole Sunday, finishing off an even-par 71 to claim the US Women’s Open.

The 23-year-old Ji outlasted playing partner and third-round leader Cristie Kerr, who struggled from the outset and failed in her bid for a second Women’s Open title in three years.

“I didn’t even dream about winning this tournament, but, well, I did it, and I think this is going to be one of the most memorable moments in my life,” Ji said through an interpreter.

Ji recovered from two bogeys in her first four holes and a double-bogey at the 10th hole and made three birdies over the final six holes to finish at even-par 284 at Saucon Valley Country Club.

Another of a legion of South Korean players who were inspired to play the game by 1998 champion Se Ri Pak, Ji claimed the biggest prize in golf in just her second try. Last year, she tied for 42nd.

She is the second straight South Korean to win the event, following Inbee Park. Countrywoman Birdie Kim claimed the championship in 2005.

During the trophy presentation, Ji was doused with champagne.

Candie Kung of Taiwan had a 2-under 69 and was alone in second at 1-over 285.

Despite her struggles, Kerr held the lead until the back nine and shot a 4-over 75, tying In-Kyung Kim of South Korea for third at 2-over 286.

Ji said the double-bogey at the 10th had a calming effect, and that’s when she tried to focus on making a run. She went on to make birdies at 13th, 14th and 18th.

“Up until that point, Cristie Kerr as so far ahead, I just didn’t think anyone was going to be able to catch her,” Ji said. “But after that double-bogey on No. 10, I basically cleared my mind and said let’s go and play out the rest of the round.”

She punctuated her steady back-nine run on the final hole by driving into the center of the fairway, landing her approach about 20 feet from the pin. She steadied her shaking hands and coolly rolled the birdie try into the center of the cup. (AP)