In a thrilling finale at the historic Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, Nelly Korda captured her long-coveted title at the U.S. Women’s Open, solidifying her status as one of the top players in women’s golf. Korda’s victory, marked by a dramatic final putt that lingered perilously on the rim of the hole before dropping in, capped off a remarkable week for the world’s top-ranked golfer, who now boasts four major championship titles, including two in just 2026.

Heart-Stopping Moments on the 18th Hole

Korda, 27, entered the final round of the 81st U.S. Women’s Open with a share of the lead, but the pressure mounted as she faced a tense situation on the 18th hole. With the championship on the line, her 2½-foot putt for victory circled the cup, causing gasps from the crowd before it finally dropped in, sealing her win with a final score of 8-under 276. The emotional moment was not lost on Korda, who expressed her disbelief and joy, stating, “I feel like I’m in a dream. I just can’t even explain how much this means to me.”

This victory represents a significant breakthrough for Korda, who has had a complicated relationship with the U.S. Open, having missed the cut three times since 2020. After finishing as a runner-up at the 2025 U.S. Open, Korda’s determination to conquer her “white whale” became evident. Her win at Riviera is also notable as it is the first Women’s Open held at the iconic venue, which is set to host golf at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

A Season of Dominance

With this latest triumph, Korda has now secured her second major victory of the year, following her win at the Chemron Championship in April. Her performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary; she has claimed four LPGA Tour victories and has finished in second place three times in just eight starts. Korda’s consistent play has made her a formidable competitor on the tour, and her mental fortitude was on full display throughout the tournament.

Defying the Odds

The final round was anything but easy. Korda began the tournament with a rocky 73 but quickly adapted her strategy, changing her grip based on advice from her sister, Jessica Korda. This adjustment proved critical as she fired back-to-back rounds of 67, entering the final day tied for the lead. As the wind picked up on Sunday, Korda managed to maintain her composure, playing the back nine without a single bogey, a feat unmatched by her competitors.

Competitive Landscape

Challenging Korda throughout the day were Charley Hull and Gaby Lopez, both of whom were aiming for their first major championships. Hull finished strong with a 67, while Lopez, who also made a late push, ended with a 68. Despite their best efforts, neither could catch Korda, who demonstrated resilience and focus under pressure. Korda’s ability to fend off such fierce competition speaks volumes about her growth as a player and her tactical approach to the game.

Celebrating the Victory

As the tournament concluded, Korda was overcome with emotion, expressing her gratitude and excitement. “I didn’t feel my best on the back nine,” she admitted, reflecting on the intense pressure she faced. “This week was definitely a grind. I was just grinding out there, and that’s what major championships are all about.” Her heartfelt response resonated with fans and players alike, capturing the essence of what it means to compete at the highest level.

The victory was celebrated widely, with notable figures like LeBron James applauding her achievement on social media. Korda’s success is not just a personal triumph; it represents a significant moment for women’s golf, inspiring a new generation of players to chase their dreams. Her journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs, showcases the grit and determination required to succeed in the competitive landscape of professional golf.

Looking Ahead

As Korda reflects on her career and the road ahead, she acknowledges the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. After a winless 2025 season, she has worked diligently to cultivate a more relaxed approach to her game. Writing “positive notes” to herself has become part of her routine, helping to alleviate the pressure she places on herself during competitions. This mental shift appears to have paid off, allowing her to embrace her strengths and focus on her performance rather than the outcome.

With her latest victory, Korda has also made history as the youngest American with four major wins since Mickey Wright in 1960. She joins the ranks of legendary players like Annika Sorenstam and Inbee Park, who have also held the title of world number one while winning the U.S. Women’s Open. This places Korda among the elite in women’s golf, further solidifying her legacy.

As the LPGA Tour heads into the next phase of the season, Korda will undoubtedly be a player to watch. Her remarkable performance at the U.S. Women’s Open has set the stage for a competitive summer, as fellow players and fans anticipate what she will achieve next. With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon and Korda’s increasing dominance on the tour, the future looks bright for both her and women’s golf as a whole.

For more on Korda’s victory and the U.S. Women’s Open, check out the full coverage on ESPN and Flashscore.