'That’s the Best Part of My Day': Michelle Wie West Opens Up on Special Fan Moment at Mizuho 

Michelle Wie West found herself in a dark place during the opening round of the Mizuho Americas Open, battling intense nerves that made the hole look impossibly small for the tournament host.

West admitted the experience was difficult after struggling early at Mountain Ridge in her first competitive round since 2023.

Despite her struggles, a heartwarming interaction at the 15th tee box shifted her perspective. “That’s the best part of my day, right?” West remarked after giving a golf ball to a young fan.

Speaking to reporters at a post-round presser, West reflected on a challenging 10-over-par 82. Her scorecard was marred by two double bogeys and a triple bogey, leaving her well back of the leader.

She noted that she often goes through several golf balls during a round and prioritizes giving them away.

Regarding these moments, she stated, “I just find it so awesome that the kids are out here. They’re having fun. Hopefully, they want to play the game,” highlighting how she values fan engagement despite her performance.

Moments like these do not end here; a similar interaction tied into a connection from her own playing group.

A Full Circle Connection with Yana Wilson 

This interaction sparked a full-circle story involving her playing partner, Yana Wilson. Their history dates back to an event at Aviara, where Wilson was once a young spectator watching West compete on the course.

Wilson revealed that when she was a young child, West had tried to give her a ball after a round. However, the future professional said no, a memory the pair laughed about during their competitive round.

The two professionals enjoyed the irony of the situation on the tee. West noted, “The little interactions that you have with these kids, like where that can end up. I find that so cool,” showing the long-term impact of small gestures in the game.

West’s 82 left her far behind leader Andrea Lee, but she remained focused on the support of her husband and caddie, Jonnie West. He supported her throughout the difficult opening round.

Acknowledging that playing under pressure is a perishable skill, West stated, “I think playing under nerves is a skill. It’s not something you can just wing.” She is now focused on “the claw” grip for her next appearance.