Cristie Kerr, winner of the 2007 U.S. Women's Open, was awarded a special exemption by the USGA into this year's event at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, California.
Kerr, 43, captured her first of two major championships at Pine Needles 14 years ago.
“Winning the U.S. Women’s Open at Pine Needles was a career- and life-changing moment,” said Kerr in USGA press release. “I’m grateful to everyone at the USGA for this special exemption and the opportunity to continue to play in what I consider our sport’s greatest championship. I can’t wait to arrive at The Olympic Club and tee it up in my 26th U.