During the 2025 US Women’s Open at Erin Hills, professional golfer Lydia Ko attracted attention after endorsing criticism about the tournament’s slow pace of play. The New Zealand player reacted to a social media post by golf analyst Zephyr Melton, which accused the event of moving at an unacceptably slow speed, bringing the issue into the spotlight.

Expert Calls Out Lengthy Playing Times Amid Major Tournament

Following the third round, Zephyr Melton shared his frustration on X, noting that the leaders, who teed off at 11:40 a.m., were only just reaching the turn after more than three hours of play on nine holes. His comment read,

Pace of play is absolutely brutal at Erin Hills today. Leaders teed off at 11:40 and they are just now making the turn. Over three hours to play nine holes.

This post went viral after Golf.com reposted it on Instagram with the remark,

Moving Day is not moving fast.

Lydia Ko’s Social Media Response Intensifies Debate

Lydia Ko drew further attention by liking Melton’s candid post, signaling agreement without issuing a direct public statement. Her social media action revealed her perspective on the slow pace during a key phase of this major championship.

Player Standings and Upcoming Final Round

After three rounds, Maja Stark leads with consistent scores of 70, 69, and 70, marking her as the frontrunner. Lydia Ko, however, has struggled to keep pace, posting rounds of 73, 71, and 73, placing her tied for 27th going into the final day. The last round is set for Sunday, June 1, with Ko teeing off at 10:47 a.m. ET alongside amateur Rayee Feng.

Implications for the US Women’s Open Competition

Ko’s reaction to the pace of play has underscored ongoing concerns about how slow rounds impact tournament flow and player focus. As the final round approaches, attention will likely remain on both the contenders’ performances and whether the pace issue prompts further discussion or adjustments at future events.