2026 U.S. Women's Open: Korda Headlines Star-Studded Round 1 Groupings at Riviera CC

The 2026 U.S. Women's Open gets underway at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, marking the second women's major of the season. All eyes are on world No. 1 Nelly Korda, who arrives having never finished outside the top 8 in seven starts this year — a run that includes three wins and three runner-up finishes.

Korda's Historic Season

Korda's dominant form culminated in a third career major title at the Chevron Championship in April. A victory at Riviera would keep her Grand Slam hopes very much alive. She opens her tournament at 10:29 a.m. ET alongside Hyo Joo Kim and Hannah Green off the 10th tee.

Japanese Players to Watch

The field features a strong Japanese contingent. Hinako Shibuno tees off with Michelle Wie West and Yani Tseng, while Yuka Saso is grouped with Jeongeun Lee6 and amateur Kiara Romero. Nasa Hataoka plays alongside Minjee Lee and Lottie Woad, and Ayaka Furue joins Jin Young Ko and Grace Kim — arguably one of the most talent-dense groupings of the day.

Other Contenders

Jeeno Thitikul and Charley Hull — grouped together alongside Patty Tavatanakit — are both chasing their first major. Lydia Ko, playing with Mao Saigo and Lauren Coughlin, seeks to add another late-career major highlight.

Strokeslab Perspective

Riviera CC demands precision on approach shots and deft scrambling around the greens, making SG: APP and SG: ATG the key metrics to track this week. Korda's season-long ball-striking edge positions her as the clear data-backed favorite, but Riviera's classic design has a way of rewarding creativity over raw power.