Kikuyu grass impacts play at the U.S. Women's Open
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 12:27 PM
Last updated Jun 1, 2026
This summer, the U.S. Women's Open takes place at Riviera Country Club, featuring Kikuyu grass that challenges players differently than common turf types. Kikuyu, known for its spongy texture, can halt balls abruptly and complicate bump-and-run shots. Previous changes to the famous par-3 fourth hole, now stretching to 192 yards for the women's tournament, have sparked discussion about its playing conditions. Pros like Rory McIlroy have expressed concerns over the setup, indicating it may hinder certain shot strategies.
- •The U.S. Women's Open is held this summer at Riviera Country Club.
- •Kikuyu grass poses unique challenges compared to common turf types.
- •The fourth hole was recently modified to 192 yards ahead of the tournament.
- •Rory McIlroy criticized the changes to the hole's setup.
- •Kikuyu grass affects shot strategy and ball behavior significantly.
- 12:27 PMYahoo Sports — Riviera's Kikuyu grass, explained
"Here are the basics to understanding why Kikuyu grass poses a unique test at Riviera Country Club during the U.S. Women's Open
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