Charley Hull nearly claimed her first major title at the 2026 US Women's Open, finishing seven strokes behind winner Nelly Korda but showcasing the aggressive playstyle that defines her tour. The 30-year-old Briton posted a record-equalling weekend charge, matching the 132 total set by Meg Mallon in 2004, fueled by a career-best 63-putt performance on the greens.

Hull's bold strategy shone on Riviera's challenging course, where she carded an eagle and two opening-hole birdies in her closing 67. Her mantra - "shy girls don't get sweets" - paid dividends despite late misfires at the ninth, 12th, and 14th holes. The former world number one's ability to maintain composure on the final hole, sinking a crucial 10-footer to briefly lead, underscores her championship pedigree.

Korda's victory, her fourth major of the season, highlighted her mastery of major championship pressure. The world number one credited caddie Jason McDede's shot-by-shot focus strategy for her comeback from a two-over opening round. Korda's dominance on greens (top scrambling stats) and ability to wait for scoring opportunities proved decisive in the US Open's demanding conditions.

While Hull's fifth runner-up finish in majors continues her ascent - eight top-20s in past 11 events - Korda's win cements her status as golf's current queen. The contrasting approaches - Hull's all-or-nothing aggression versus Korda's calculated patience - reflect different paths to major success. At 28, Korda has already captured four majors, while Hull remains poised to finally break through, having flirted with glory five times previously.