Nelly Korda won the U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera for her second consecutive major title, finishing at eight-under par after a dramatic final putt. The American’s one-shot victory over Charley Hull and Gaby Lopez further solidifies her dominance in the 2026 season and marks her fourth career major championship.
Korda’s victory was built on resilience and composure. After a challenging opening-round 73, she carded back-to-back rounds of 67 to enter the final day with a share of the lead. Her final-round two-under 69 was a model of consistency in windy conditions that challenged the field. While other contenders faltered, Korda was the only player in the leading group to avoid a bogey on the back nine, a testament to her mental fortitude. Her scrambling was particularly effective, proving critical in navigating Riviera’s difficult greens.
The decisive moment came on the par-five 17th, where Korda made a nine-foot birdie putt to break a four-way tie for the lead. She then faced a nervy finish on the 18th, where her two-and-a-half-foot par putt circled the entire cup before dropping to seal the victory and avoid a playoff. The win is Korda’s fourth of an already spectacular season, which includes three second-place finishes.
Following the win, Korda expressed her disbelief. “I feel like I’m in a dream,” she told the gallery. “I just can’t even explain how much this means to me with all of you here cheering me on.” The victory extends her lead in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings and the Race to the CME Globe standings. It stands in stark contrast to a winless 2025 campaign and cements a remarkable return to the pinnacle of the sport.
