Tiger’s niece relishing first US Women’s Open

A 21-YEAR-OLD qualifier finds herself one of the main attractions at this week’s US Women’s Open at Blackwolf Run in Kohler, Wisconsin.

Cheyenne Woods is the niece of Tiger and, after turning professional earlier this season, it is her debut in her national championship.

“I’ve not necessarily had advice, but support,” said the Wake Forest graduate. “That’s probably the biggest thing I can get – knowing he’s excited I’m here. He’s the best player in the world and I have him at my fingertips if I need help. It’s nice to have.

“Watching Tiger play as I grew up I knew I wanted to get out there one day. I’ve grown up with the expectations and the pressure and I think that it has helped me get to where I am and prepare me for this next level.”

The first time she watched her uncle play came before her second birthday – she was in a pushchair at the 1992 Los Angeles Open when he made his PGA Tour debut aged 16.

Making the cut – something he did not do that week – is the goal for Cheyenne but, for world No 1 Yani Tseng, it is to complete a career Grand Slam.

Only two years older than Cheyenne, she has two British Women’s Opens, two LPGA Championships and one Kraft Nabisco, but has a best finish of 10th in the US Open. “My dream was playing it, now I’m trying to think of winning it – it’s a very big step for me.”

Catriona Matthew is the sole Scot in a field that also includes new British amateur champion Stephanie Meadow.