Frances bows out; soccers loyal fans; orange golf balls; Whitworth's million-dollar guest

Golfer Kathy Whitworth never planned things to work out asthey did, but she exhibited impeccable timing nonetheless at last week's US Open. By arriving in LaGrange, Ill., just $1,031 shy of $1 million in career earnings, she was in excellent position to become golf's first female millionaire at the country's most prestigious tournament. After leading for three rounds, it even began to look as though she would achieve two milestones in one fell swoop -- break the million-dollar barrier and win her first-ever Open after more than 20 years of trying. The latter achievement has eluded her just as the PGA title has always escaped Arnold Palmer and the men's US Open crown Sam Snead.

Kathy couldn't hold on, though, slipping to third place by shooting 74 during Sunday's final round. Pat Bradley and Beth Daniel wound up battling down the stretch, with Bradley securing a one-stroke victory with a birdie on the 18th hole.