Korda Survives Dramatic Final Putt to Win First U.S. Women’s Open Title

Summary:

• Nelly Korda won her first U.S. Women’s Open title by one shot at Riviera Country Club.
• A dramatic final putt on the 18th hole nearly spun out before dropping to secure victory.
• The world No. 1 claimed her fourth major title and second consecutive major championship of 2026.

Nelly Korda added yet another outstanding chapter to her incredible 2026 season on Sunday, when she won her very first U.S. Women’s Open title following an edge-of-the-seat finish at Riviera Country Club in California that left everyone holding their breath until the very last moment.

One-Shot Win

The world’s top-ranked golfer secured the prestigious championship, finishing at 8 under par and claiming a one-shot victory over England’s Charley Hull and Mexico’s Gaby Lopez.

The win, however, nearly slipped away on the final green. Standing over a short putt on the 18th hole that would secure the title, Korda watched as the ball caught the edge of the cup and rolled around the rim.

For a few agonizing seconds, it appeared the putt might stay out and force a playoff. Instead, the ball finally dropped, triggering an eruption of cheers from the crowd.

“It’s even sweeter, especially with that ice cream swirl on the last hole“, Korda said afterward, laughing about the unforgettable finish.

The victory marks Korda’s second consecutive major championship after her triumph at the Chevron Championship earlier this year and gives the 27-year-old her fourth major title overall.

She Kept Her Composure

Seven players kicked off on Sunday within two shots of the lead, and several challengers remained in contention deep into the back nine.

Nelly Korda managed to keep her ground under pressure, posting a final round 69 while avoiding a single bogey on the closing nine holes. Her decisive moment came at the par 4 17th, where she drained a crucial nine-foot birdie putt to move ahead of the pack.

I don’t really throw out fist pumps too often, but I did this weekend. I threw out a double fist pump on that hole, because I knew what it meant.

The victory capped an impressive comeback week. After opening with a disappointing 73 and finding herself seven shots off the lead, Korda made adjustments to her grip and responded with consecutive rounds of 67 to climb into contention.

The champion earned $2.5 million from the golf tournament‘s record $12.5 million purse and collected her 19th LPGA Tour victory.

It’s a dream come true. I’ve dreamt about this moment since I was a little girl