Nelly Korda shot a 4-under 67 to share the lead after the third round of the U.S. Women’s Open [1].
The performance places the world No. 1 in a prime position to win one of golf's most prestigious majors. Her ability to adjust her technique mid-tournament demonstrates the mental and physical flexibility required to maintain a top global ranking.
Korda achieved the score during the third round on June 8, 2024 [1], at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California [1], [2]. The round allowed her to move into a co-lead with other players in the field [1].
Central to this performance was a technical change Korda described as a “funky grip” [3]. Korda said she worked on this different grip with assistance from her sister to improve her feel, and control of the club [3]. She said this specific adjustment contributed to her low score and her position at the top of the leaderboard [3].
While some reports indicated a struggle during the event, the primary records show Korda seizing a share of the lead through this tactical shift [1]. The adjustment occurred during a high-pressure environment where minor changes in hand placement can significantly alter ball flight and accuracy.
Korda entered the tournament driven by setbacks from the previous year [2]. Her success at the Riviera Country Club marks a turnaround in her momentum as she heads into the final round of the championship [1].
“Nelly Korda shot a 4-under 67 to share the lead after the third round.”
Korda's success with a non-traditional grip highlights the iterative nature of professional golf, where minute mechanical adjustments can be the difference between a leaderboard collapse and a championship contention. By collaborating with her sister to refine her feel, Korda has demonstrated a willingness to deviate from standard form to overcome specific course challenges at the Riviera Country Club.
