FAR HILLS, N.J. (AP) -- Retiring South Korean great Se Ri Pak has received a special exemption from the U.S. Golf Association to play in the U.S. Women's Open.
The USGA announced the exemption Wednesday for the July 7-10 event at CordeValle in San Martin, California. Pak won the 1998 tournament at Blackwolf Run in a 20-hole playoff against amateur Jenny Chuasiriporn, a victory that inspired many young South Koreans players.
''The U.S. Women's Open has a very special meaning in my career and life,'' Pak said. ''It has opened up the doors for all my dreams to come true.