Kupcho Leads After First Round of 2026 U.S. Women's Open; Korda Faces Challenges

PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 04: The 2026 U.S. Women’s Open has officially commenced at the iconic Riviera Country Club, marking the tournament's debut at this storied venue. Following the completion of the first round, results are in.

Jennifer Kupcho from the United States emerged as the leader after the opening round, posting an impressive score of 66 (-5). Displaying remarkable skill, she started her round with three consecutive birdies. Kupcho, who previously secured a tie for 21st at the U.S. Open in 2027, also made history by winning the Chevron Championship in 2022. “Honestly, I kind of just felt at home,” she remarked about her performance at Riviera. “It kind of just flies by. It's kind of a ball striker's paradise, just hit it down the fairway, hit it on the green and make the putts.”

In close pursuit is Sei Young Kim, who finished the first round with a score of 67. Kim showcased her talent with five birdies between the sixth and eleventh holes and capped her round with a remarkable 29-foot putt. “This course is really famous in the world, so I'm very happy to play here this week,” she stated, acknowledging the challenge the course presents. “But we have three more days, and I look forward to the rest.”

World No. 1 Nelly Korda had a difficult start, finishing the first round at 2 over par with a score of 73. After starting at hole 10 and making a birdie on 11, Korda struggled with bogeys on holes 12 and 13. Notably, she made a mid-round shoe change, switching from custom LeBron James shoes back to her familiar Nikes. Korda expressed confusion over her performance, stating, “I hit it really good Monday through Wednesday, so I have honestly no idea where this came from,” and noted she planned to practice ahead of the next round.

LPGA veteran Michelle Wie West, returning from retirement, made headlines by hitting a remarkable 319-yard drive on her first shot. Wie West, who claimed the U.S. Women’s Open title in 2014, returned to the course due to personal motivations, including her late father-in-law's ties to Riviera. Additionally, amateur golfer Aphrodite Deng, 16, made an impressive showing with a score of 70 (-1), tying for 14th place as she competed among 23 amateur players in the event.