Lucy Li Ends Incredible Run at U.S. Women’s Open

Lucy Li, the 11-year old golfing phenom who took the entire golfing world by storm this week, missed the cut during the second round of the U.S Women’s Open at Pinehurst, North Carolina. Li shot a 78 on Friday and finished her remarkable run at 16 over par.

Li qualified for the tournament last weekend and became the youngest player ever to make the event. The media circled the Redwood Shores, California native as her run at women’s golf history ended with a press conference at the end of Pinehurst no. 2, and more ice cream.

“I’m really happy about how I played,” Li told reporters after her match. “I’m really happy with how I bounced back from the big numbers. I got birdies after I got, like, doubles and triples.”

Li struggled on Friday hitting a double bogey, and a triple bogey on the par 4, 13th hole. The highlight of her run was a birdie on the 14th hole.

“I’m really happy with how I bounced back from the big numbers,” Li said

The sixth grader captured the hearts of fans everywhere, and comparisons to both Michelle Wie, who qualified for her first major at age 13, and Lexi Thompson, the previous youngest player ever to qualify for a women’s major at age 12, are valid. Both golfers played in the same U.S. Women’s Open today and Li’s accomplishment did not go unnoticed.

“I hope she’s having a blast out there,” Wie said.

Li was caddied by Pinehurst resident Bryan Bush, who was quick to point out that it was never about the score. Bush was impressed by what he saw.

“I think she had a great time,” said Bush, who worked with Li all week. “I know she’s looking forward to the Public Links—so look out field, she will be coming for you. And then of course the U.S. Amateur. So she’s got a busy summer ahead of her and I wish her the best.” Bush went on to say, “She was here for the experience and the opportunity to play with the best players in the world. She proved that she can. So it was never about her score.”

Lucy Li will now prepare for her next tournament, the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links at the Home Course in DuPont, Washington on July 14.

“I’m really happy about how I played,” Li said. “I got birdies after I got like doubles and triples, so that’s what I’m really happy about. I guess you have to be patient.”