Out of the rough

Rianne Malixi has played on some of golf’s grandest stages, but this week at Erin Hills, she walks into a new chapter — her debut at the US Women’s Open as an amateur. For the 17-year-old Filipina, just being able to tee it up again is already a victory.

“I’m physically feeling a lot better,” Malixi says. “Though not as strong as before, I am grateful to be able to play again.”

The 18-year-old hasn’t seen tournament action since pulling out after just five holes at the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific Championship last March 6. She was also forced to skip the prestigious Augusta National Women’s Amateur in April after feeling a sharp pain in her lower back during a practice round.

The good news? She’s pain-free this week.

Her road to recovery included a trip to Australia, where she worked with her physiotherapist and biomechanist.

“We focused on refining my movement, and now I’m on a program to rebuild my foundation,” she explains. “It’s been a tough process. Early on, I was miserable not being able to play. But slowly getting back reminded me of how much I had pushed myself before — and made me appreciate all the work I used to do.”

Now, Malixi is soaking in the moment — and she’s not alone in carrying the Philippine flag.

Veteran Dottie Ardina, a seasoned professional and former junior star herself, is also in the field, giving Filipino golf fans more reason to celebrate.

And then there’s Yuka Saso — the 2021 US Women’s Open champion, who famously won while representing the Philippines, becoming the first Filipino to win a major.

Saso, born to a Japanese father and Filipino mother, now competes under the Japanese flag. But her victory in 2021 — when she proudly wore the Philippine colors — remains etched in the country’s sporting history. Her presence at Erin Hills, this time as defending champion, adds another layer of significance for fans back home.

“To be able to play again and at the US Women’s Open is huge for me,” says Malixi. “I’m very grateful and honored.”

She’s not focused on results or rankings this week — not even her lofty No. 5 spot in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. “Being No. 5 doesn’t even cross my mind. I’m not here to prove anything. I am enough, and I’m just doing the best I can.”

Erin Hills, with its sprawling fairways and punishing roughs, offers no easy paths. But Malixi welcomes the challenge.

“It’s a great course. It really forces you to think — to make decisions to avoid trouble,” she says. “I’m not setting any goals or expectations. I just want to play with what I have.”

She’s also here to learn, especially from seasoned professionals.

“I want to see what the pros do during practice rounds — how they take notes, practice from different spots. Hopefully, I can pick up some good habits along the way.”

While thoughts of turning professional may loom on the horizon, Malixi is focused on the now. And for now, she’s walking proudly in the footsteps of the country’s golfing heroes — including Ardina and Saso, whose 2021 triumph still inspires.

“All aspects of my game feel balanced right now,” Malixi says. “Honestly, I’m just happy to be out here again. Every hole feels exciting.”

With talent, humility, and perspective well beyond her years, Rianne Malixi’s journey is just getting started — and this week at Erin Hills, she’s savoring every swing.