Story perspectives

Nelly Korda Leads US Women’s Open, Eyes Hall Points

6/4/2026

Summary

Korda Eyes Open

Nelly Korda arrived at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades as the favorite for the 81st U.S. Women’s Open.
She entered after three victories this season.
A win would give her two Hall of Fame points she needs while betting odds list her at +390 on DraftKings and +340 on BetMGM.
She practiced in a soccer jersey with No. 13, calling the number personal and patriotic ahead of the World Cup.

Summary

Wie West Final

Michelle Wie West will use her 2026 maternity exemption to play her final U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera.
Her husband Jonnie West, son of late NBA legend Jerry West, will caddie as she wears custom Nike sneakers honoring Jerry West.
Wie West entered the Mizuho Americas Open as a sponsor-invited playing host, the first event she both hosts and competes in, despite ongoing wrist and hand injuries.

History

Historical Context

In 1995, Annika Sörenstam captured the U.S. Women’s Open at Pine Needles, becoming the first Swede to claim the title. She posted a 279 total, five strokes ahead of runner-up Dottie Pepper, and earned a $500,000 purse, the largest women’s prize then. Today, Nelly Korda heads to Riviera for the U.S. Women’s Open, while Michelle Wie West eyes a 2026 farewell with Jonnie West as caddie. Their pursuits echo Sörenstam’s breakthrough, suggesting the U.S. Women’s Open will continue expanding global appeal and prize growth, influencing future tour policies.

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Korda Eyes Open

Nelly Korda arrived at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades as the favorite for the 81st U.S. Women’s Open.
She entered after three victories this season.
A win would give her two Hall of Fame points she needs while betting odds list her at +390 on DraftKings and +340 on BetMGM.
She practiced in a soccer jersey with No. 13, calling the number personal and patriotic ahead of the World Cup.

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