The battle for the 2026 US Women’s Open title is heading for a thrilling conclusion after Nelly Korda produced a stunning finish to move into a share of the lead, while England’s Charley Hull climbed firmly into contention with one of the standout rounds of the tournament.
Playing at the iconic Riviera Country Club in California, Korda showcased why she remains the world’s top-ranked golfer. The American carded a four-under-par 67 in the third round, highlighted by a remarkable closing stretch that saw her pick up three birdies over her final three holes.
The late burst propelled Korda to six-under-par for the championship, leaving her tied at the top of the leaderboard with South Korea’s Sei Young Kim heading into Sunday’s decisive final round.
Korda Finds Her Momentum
For much of the day, Korda appeared to be grinding through a challenging round on a demanding course. However, the three-time major winner came alive when it mattered most. Her strong finish not only erased the gap to the leaders but also placed her in prime position to claim another major championship.
A victory would further strengthen what has already been an impressive season for the American, who continues to be one of the most dominant figures in women’s golf.
Hull Produces Round of the Day
While Korda grabbed a share of the lead, Charley Hull arguably produced the performance that generated the biggest buzz.
The English star fired a five-under-par 66, one of the best rounds of the day, to surge up the leaderboard. Hull’s aggressive approach and accurate shot-making allowed her to recover from an earlier deficit and re-enter the title race.
Her impressive display leaves her just two shots behind the leaders at four-under-par, ensuring she remains a genuine contender for a first US Women’s Open crown.
Hull has consistently been among the most talented players on the women’s tour, and her third-round performance demonstrated both patience and resilience under pressure.
Tight Leaderboard Promises Drama
With 18 holes remaining, the championship remains wide open. Korda and Kim share the lead at six-under-par, while Hull sits within striking distance alongside several other challengers.
The demanding Riviera layout has tested players throughout the week, rewarding precision and punishing mistakes. That means no lead is guaranteed heading into the final day.
Golf fans can now look forward to a high-stakes finale featuring one of the sport’s biggest stars in Korda, an experienced contender in Kim, and a charging Hull eager to complete her comeback.
Key Scores After Round Three
T1: Nelly Korda (USA) – 6-under
T1: Sei Young Kim (South Korea) – 6-under
T3: Charley Hull (England) – 4-under
Korda’s Round 3 Score: 67 (-4)
Hull’s Round 3 Score: 66 (-5)
What to Watch in the Final Round
Can Nelly Korda convert her late momentum into another major title?
Will Charley Hull complete her remarkable climb up the leaderboard?
Can Sei Young Kim hold off the world No. 1 and claim the championship?
With multiple players still in contention and Riviera proving to be a stern test, the final round is set to deliver a dramatic finish to one of women’s golf’s biggest events.
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