The US Senior Women's Open, a new championship for female golfers 50-and-over, will be launched in 2018, the US Golf Association (USGA) announced Saturday.
The tournament will mirror the set-up of the US Open and US Women's Open with 72 holes of stroke play and a cut after 36 holes.
"The necessary equation for success and long-term viability of this championship has gradually and finally come together," USGA executive director Mike Davis said.
"Even though we have not yet decided on a venue or an exact date for the inaugural championship, we wanted to celebrate its coming."
Davis cited the growth of the game worldwide and the number of former LPGA players who would likely contest for such a title as major reasons to create the championship.
"We feel strongly that factors such as the international strength of the LPGA and the increasing number of age-eligible quality competitors from around the world, as well as the growth of women's golf, are key to reaching this historic announcement," Davis said.
"The number of entries in our women's championships continues to grow. We hope this new championship will inspire both amateurs and professionals."
Field size, playoff format and the first host venue for the event will be announced later, the USGA said.
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