Nelly Korda captured the U.S. Women’s Open title with a one-shot victory after making a highly unconventional mid-tournament grip change. The win, her fourth of the 2026 season, further cemented her position as the undisputed World No. 1 in the Rolex Rankings.
Korda’s championship week began with uncharacteristic difficulty. She posted an opening-round 73, losing strokes to the field with her approach play. The performance was baffling for the world’s best ball-striker. Korda said: “I hit it really good Monday through Wednesday, so I have honestly no idea where this came from.” A post-round range session with her sister, Jessica, revealed the issue: her trail hand grip had become too weak. Following her sister’s advice, Korda strengthened the grip, a significant technical adjustment for any professional, let alone during a major.
The change produced immediate results. Despite the new hold feeling unusual, Korda trusted the process. She said: “It felt super funky today, but I just trusted and went with it.” Her iron play returned to its elite standard in the second round, where she gained over a shot on the field with her approaches en route to a 67. She followed with another 67 and a final-round 69 to hold off Charley Hull and Gabby Lopez.
Korda credited her sister for having the confidence to suggest such a critical alteration. She said: “The trust level is definitely high with [Jessica]. I know I can always count on her. She’s been there through my warmups and warm downs almost every single day, so she’s been a great support system.” This victory marks Korda’s second consecutive major of the season and her fourth overall.
This U.S. Open title significantly advances her career narrative. The win extends her lead in the Race to the CME Globe standings and moves her to 25 LPGA Hall of Fame points, just two shy of the 27 required for eligibility. Still, Korda acknowledged the gamble. She said: “I _do not_ recommend changing your grip during a major championship.”
