ERIN, Wisconsin – Yuka Saso is back at the U.S. Women’s Open, aiming to win the championship for a third time. 

The 23-year-old, who won in 2021 and again in 2024, spoke to the media ahead of this year’s tournament at Erin Hills.

“Very difficult,” she said about the course, describing it as windy and link-style. “I think it’s going to be a good challenge.”

The Filipina-Japanese sensation has been preparing since the weekend, spending extra time learning the course. She says what helps her at the U.S. Women’s Open is the pressure. “It makes me focus more. I have no time to relax, which I think helps.”

Winning her second U.S. Open was just as impactful as the first. “I could call myself a two-time major champion,” she said. “Winning it twice is much better.”

She doesn’t feel added pressure from being a two-time winner but admits moving to the U.S. after her first win was a tough adjustment. “It was one of the challenges,” she said. “But I’ve learned a lot and I’ve grown more patient.”

Saso credits a new green-reading routine with her caddie and coaching from John Graham for improving her putting. “I think that helped a lot,” she said.

When asked what keeps her motivated, her answer was simple: “Win another one.”

Saso says her preparation hasn’t changed much since last year—just getting to know the course early and putting in the work. She noted holes 9 and 14 as the most fun, with 16–18 being the most exciting for spectators.

With her trophies kept between Japan, the Philippines, and Dallas—sometimes even riding in her car—Saso is ready to go again this week.

“Winning keeps me motivated,” she said. Now, she’s hoping to add a third U.S. Women’s Open title to her name.