Nelly Korda chases the elusive major title at the 2026 U.S. Women's Open, and the legendary Riviera Country Club is the perfect setting for this showdown. With a field full of top stars and an emotional farewell tour, this tournament is a must-see event for every golf fan. Defending champion Maja Stark is in the field, and Michelle Wie West will also play her last U.S. Women's Open.
Korda’s Unstoppable Run
World Number 1, Nelly Korda, is the clear favorite. Although the U.S. Women's Open title is still missing from her trophy collection, she was already runner-up last year. Korda is having an exceptionally strong season: She has already claimed three victories, including the prestigious Chevron Championship in April 2026. With this form, she will be virtually unstoppable at Riviera.
Farewell and Title Dreams
But Korda isn't the only one driving up the excitement. Michelle Wie West, who retired three years ago, returns for her final start at the U.S. Women's Open – a truly emotional event, made possible by her final special exemption. Other top contenders like Jeeno Thitikul, Olympic medalist Lydia Ko, and the ever-present Charley Hull – all still awaiting their first U.S. Women's Open or even major title – are hungry for the win.
Let's not forget former U.S. Women's Open champions Minjee Lee (2022) and Yuka Saso, who has triumphed twice at this tournament, remarkably without any other LPGA titles – now that's a statistic! With Rose Zhang and Lilia Vu, there are even more strong contenders in the mix. The 2026 U.S. Women's Open at Riviera Country Club promises one thrilling round after another. It will be exciting to see who ultimately lifts the trophy.
