5 things to know about the AIG Women's British at St. Andrews, including the 'horrendous' forecast and Lexi Thompson's future major plans

ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – Even R&A chief Martin Slumbers can’t believe how many of the top female players in the world have never competed over the Old Course. World No. 1 Nelly Korda first came to St. Andrews in 2017 when the AIG Women’s British Open was held at Kingsbarns, but this week marked the first time she’d actually teed it up on the Old Course.

In all, 32 of the top 50 players in the Rolex Rankings have never played a competition at the Old Course. That list includes 2023 AIG champion Lilia Vu, Jin Young Ko, Rose Zhang, Hannah Green, Ruoning Yin, Minjee Lee, Yuka Saso, Brooke Henderson and a host of other top players.

“We take for granted that the men have played here since they were young boys playing in international events,” said Slumbers.

This week marks only the third time the best female players in the world will compete over Old Course for a major title, with Lorena Ochoa winning the first in 2007 and Stacy Lewis the second in 2013.

“This is the Home of Golf. It is arguably the most important golf course in the world,” said Slumbers. “I think we’re going to enjoy watching them play.”

Here are five things to know about what’s bound to be a most memorable week in the women’s game.

AIG Women’s British: Photos