Rianne Malixi may have bowed out early at the 2025 US Women’s Open, but her debut at Erin Hills was anything but a setback — it was a powerful glimpse into the grit and promise of one of golf’s rising stars.

Just 18 years old, the Filipino standout didn’t need to qualify to tee it up with the world’s best. She earned her place outright as the reigning US Women’s Amateur and US Girls’ Junior champion — an incredibly rare double that firmly cemented her status as one of the brightest young talents in the game.

But the road to the Open wasn’t smooth. A lingering back injury had kept her out of competition for months. Her last appearance came way back in February at the Philippine Open, where she tested her game against top male professionals.

So when Malixi arrived at the long, wind-swept fairways of Erin Hills, she came not chasing a trophy, but seeking something equally valuable: experience.

“The results are not what I was looking for,” Malixi admitted, “but like I said a few days ago, I am happy enough to be able to play again.”

And Erin Hills didn’t hold back. The punishing rough and swirling winds gave even LPGA veterans trouble. Big names like Yuka Saso, Rose Zhang, Jeeno Thitikul, Lexi Thompson and Leona Maguire also missed the cut, a testament to the course’s toughness.

Through it all, Malixi showed flashes of the game that’s taken her to the top of amateur golf — steady off the tee, sharp with her course management, and determined despite the rust.

“My putter has betrayed me for the whole two days,” she said with a laugh. “But it just tells me that I’m back to grinding again!”

While she didn’t make the weekend, Malixi left with something just as valuable: clarity. Clarity about what needs work. Clarity about where she stands. And a clear hunger to return stronger.

“I have the skills, and I know there’s still much room for improvement,” she said. “So I’m very excited to be back to training and work my hardest to come back even stronger.”

Already a source of pride in Philippine golf, Malixi’s Open debut was another milestone in what’s shaping up to be a remarkable journey. With her head held high and eyes fixed forward, there’s little doubt: she’ll be back — not just to play, but to contend.