Michelle Wie West prepares for U.S. Women’s Open, a week after announcing retirement | Golf News and Tour Information

SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. — Five days ago, Michelle Wie West made the surprise announcement that she's stepping away from professional golf following this week's U.S. Women's Open. She intends to play next year when the same tournament comes to Pebble Beach, but beyond that, it looked and sounded like a definitive retirement for the 32-year-old icon. Tuesday at Pine Needles, speaking to the media ahead of what might be her second-to-last major championship, Wie West appeared comfortable, and even happy, with her decision.

"It was kind of bittersweet always . . .