Nelly Korda is primed for a U.S. Women’s Open victory. We break down her incredible season, Riviera’s challenge, and other top storylines at this year’s major.
Nelly’s Season: Pure Domination, Mostly
The Mental Game: The Real USWO Battle
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Beyond Nelly: Other Stories to Watch
- The Amateurs: You’ve got top-ranked Kiara Romero, Augusta National Women’s Amateur champ Maria Jose Marin, and Stanford’s Paula Martin Sampedro, fresh off a NCAA title. These amateurs are the future. Can any of them make a serious run and contend on the weekend? It’s always fun to see new talent emerge.
- Jeeno Thitikul’s Major Search: This is always a big one. Can Jeeno finally shed that “best player without a major” tag? She’s been close. So close. Winning that first major is always the hardest. She’s in good form, coming off a win at the Mizuho. But major championship golf? It’s a different beast entirely.
- Julia Lopez Ramirez’s Power: This second-year player from Spain is the LPGA’s longest hitter, averaging 291 yards. She also ranks 10th in greens in regulation. She finished top 20 as a rookie last year. She might not be a true contender – her short game and putting aren’t quite there yet – but if you’re there in person, she’s a blast to follow. Pure power.