As the third round of the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera Country Club drew to a close, Nelly Korda electrified the leaderboard with a clutch finish that reshaped the tournament’s dynamic. The World No. 1 rattled off three consecutive birdies over the final three holes, turning a tight chase into a shared lead at six under par. This late burst didn't just boost her score—it injected fresh tension and anticipation into the final round scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
Nelly Korda’s Late Surge: Timing Is Everything
Korda, who entered the week as the favorite to win her first U.S. Women’s Open and fourth major overall, showcased her resilience and skill by posting back-to-back 67s on Friday and Saturday. After shaking off a tough start to the week, her birdie run on holes 16, 17, and 18 was a textbook example of seizing momentum at the perfect moment. That sequence vaulted her into a tie for the lead with South Korea’s Sei Young Kim, who responded with a sturdy 68 to match Korda’s position.
Sei Young Kim Matches Korda’s Charge
Kim’s steady approach and consistent scoring on the Riviera layout kept her in lockstep with Korda heading into the final round. While Korda’s late flourish grabbed headlines, Kim’s round was a study in balance and precision, underscoring why she remains a formidable competitor on the LPGA Tour. Their shared lead sets the stage for a compelling head-to-head battle on Sunday.
The Stakes: A Potential Sweep of Women’s Majors
Korda’s position atop the leaderboard is more than just a snapshot of current form—it places her on the brink of an exceptional achievement. Should she prevail, she will capture the first two women’s majors of the season, reinforcing her dominance in women’s golf. This pursuit adds a layer of pressure and narrative intrigue as she faces Kim and the rest of the field at one of golf’s most historic venues.
Sunday’s Final Round: Timing and Coverage
The final round at Riviera Country Club tees off Sunday afternoon, with Korda and Kim set to lead the charge at 3:35 p.m. ET in the tournament’s featured group. Fans can follow the action live from 3 to 5 p.m. ET on Peacock and USWomensOpen.com, before NBC takes over the broadcast from 5 to 8 p.m. ET. This coverage ensures that every critical putt and strategic decision will be captured as the championship culminates.
Why This Moment Matters in Women’s Golf
The 2026 U.S. Women’s Open exemplifies how momentum shifts can define a tournament’s narrative. Korda’s late-round birdies aren’t just a scorecard flourish—they are a statement of intent and mental toughness. This dynamic highlights the importance of closing holes strong at major championships, where every stroke carries outsized weight. For golf fans and players alike, understanding these pressure points enriches the viewing experience and appreciation for the sport’s competitive nuances.
According to All The Golf, the duel between Korda and Kim encapsulates the evolving landscape of women’s majors, where emerging talents continually raise the stakes and challenge the established order.
As the final round unfolds, all eyes will be on Riviera’s demanding layout and how these two leaders navigate its challenges under the weight of a major title on the line.
What to watch next: The critical test for Korda and Kim will come in how they manage the front nine’s risk-reward holes under final-round pressure. Their ability to maintain composure and capitalize on scoring opportunities early could determine whether Korda secures a rare consecutive major victory or if Kim upends the favorite on Sunday. For a broader view, explore our coverage of LPGA Tour news and results.
Source: according to All The Golf
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