Yuka clashes with giants in US Women’s Open

MANILA, Philippines — Yuka Saso of the Philippines faces a stern test as she vies for glory in the high-powered 76th US Women’s Open at the Olympic Club in San Francisco, California.

Saso is up against a star-studded field in her bid to contend in the prestigious majors after placing a strong 13th place in the 2020 edition last December in Houston.

Holder A Lim Kim and former winners Sung Hyun Park, Michelle Wie-West, Paula Creamer and In Gee Chun banner the stellar 156-player cast that also includes past runners-up and USGA champions in what looms as a battle royale for top honors.

Saso has drawn one of the past victors as a flightmate in Thursday’s opening round at The Lake Course. The 19-year-old Fil-Japanese tees up in the 8:21 a.m. flight (early Friday in Manila) with Korean 2015 winner In and American Marina Alex.