GOLF.com: Korda's Bid for a First USWO Title — Her 2026 Strokes Gained Numbers Make the Case

The 81st U.S. Women's Open breaks new ground at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles — the first time the historic course has hosted the championship. Nelly Korda arrives as the clear favorite, armed with 2026 statistics that rank among the most dominant in LPGA history.

The Numbers Behind Korda's Dominance

Korda's Strokes Gained Total has surged from 2.86 in 2024 to 4.03 through seven starts in 2026 — a nearly 1.2-shot improvement that separates her from the field. Her season record: three wins, three runner-up finishes, and a worst result of tied-8th. She has also added 10 yards off the tee compared to two years ago, a distance advantage that suits Riviera's demanding layout.

The one question mark is putting. If she finds her rhythm on the greens, the tournament may not be competitive by Sunday. The memory of her 2024 USWO miss-cut still lingers, but editors noted that experience could now work in her favor.

Other Players to Watch

Jeeno Thitikul arrives fresh off a win at the Mizuho Americas Open and is eager to shed the best-player-without-a-major label. Julia Lopez Ramirez leads the LPGA in driving distance at a 291-yard average and ranks 10th in GIR — an explosive ball-striker worth following on-site, even if her short game limits her contention chances.

Strokeslab's Take

The analytical case for Korda is overwhelming. A 4.03 SG total is elite by any measure, and Riviera's ball-striking premium plays directly into her strengths. Track her putting statistics in Round 1 — that single variable will likely determine whether this becomes the defining week of her career.