As the U.S. Women’s Open commences at the historic Riviera Country Club, Nelly Korda stands poised to fulfil her ambitions after narrowly missing out on the title last year. The World No. 1 golfer, who finished second to Maja Stark in 2022, arrives at this year’s tournament fuelled by a renewed determination and an impressive track record, including a recent major victory.
A Year of Lessons Learned
Reflecting on her near miss at Erin Hills, Korda expressed a profound hunger for success: “Last year was just a weird year of kind of not necessarily playing my best…but also when I did, not getting the bounces.” This experience, however, has only intensified her desire to excel. With three tournament victories this season and a major win at the Chevron Championship, Korda’s confidence is palpable.
“I’m just motivated to put myself into that position,” she stated, eager to embrace the thrill of competition. The challenge of competing for the richest prize pool in women’s golf at the Riviera, a site steeped in history and glamour, adds to her excitement. For Korda, the back nine of a tournament represents the ultimate rush, driving her to push beyond her limits.
Korda has opted for a two-week hiatus prior to the Open, ensuring she arrives at Riviera fully prepared. The course, famed for its exclusive clientele and scenic views of Pacific Palisades, presents a unique challenge, as she has only played it once before this week.
Stark Returns with New Perspective
Maja Stark, the reigning champion, has returned to Riviera with the trophy she claimed last year. However, she is eager to pass it on, stating, “I did kind of want to let it go… it’s more fun to play for it than to have it.” Despite her early successes, including last year’s victory, Stark faced challenges in maintaining her form, missing the cut in five of her next seven tournaments. In response, the Swedish golfer has turned to a therapist and sports psychologist, focusing on the mental aspects of her game. This shift has already paid dividends, as she currently ranks 23rd in the world after a more consistent season.
Rising Stars Making Their Mark
Among the new talents making their professional debuts at Riviera is Megha Ganne, fresh from her triumph as the U.S. Women’s Amateur champion. Ganne, who played in the last group of the 2021 Open as a 17-year-old, is eager to transition into professional golf, leaning on the support of seasoned players like Lydia Ko. “Being a professional is about the little stuff…that comes with experience, time, maturity and having a good team around you,” she remarked, showcasing her understanding of the rigours that lie ahead.
Catherine Park, another promising player and USC star, will also debut at this prestigious event. Both athletes are set to make waves on the LPGA Tour, signalling a bright future for women’s golf.
Michelle Wie West Makes a Comeback
In a surprising turn of events, former prodigy Michelle Wie West has announced her return from retirement, marking her first tournament since the 2023 U.S. Open. The 36-year-old, who captured her only major title at the Open in 2014, has made use of her final year of exemption to compete at Riviera. With her husband, Jonnie West, serving as her caddy and her daughter Makenna in attendance, Wie West hopes to create lasting memories for her family this week.
Why it Matters
The U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera is more than just a golf tournament; it is a celebration of women’s sport and an opportunity for athletes to showcase their talent on one of the grandest stages. Korda’s quest for redemption, Stark’s pursuit of consistency, and the emergence of young stars like Ganne and Park highlight the evolving landscape of women’s golf. As the sport continues to gain traction globally, the spotlight on these exceptional athletes not only inspires future generations but also underscores the significance of competitive drive and resilience in the face of challenges.
