Nelly Korda Dominates Riviera Maya Open With Three-Shot Lead After Spectacular Eagle Finish

Posted : 03 May 2026

Nelly Korda continued her remarkable run of form on Saturday, producing a stunning eagle on the final hole to pull away from the field at the Riviera Maya Open. The world’s top-ranked female golfer struck a majestic 8-iron to within 18 inches of the cup at the 18th hole to secure a 5-under 67. This performance moved her to 14-under 202 for the tournament, giving her a comfortable cushion as she seeks her third victory of the 2026 season.

The American star is currently chasing history in Playa Del Carmen. A victory on Sunday would make her the first player since Annika Sorenstam in 2001 to finish no worse than runner-up in her first six starts of a season. Korda has notably played in the final group of every tournament she has entered this year. This consistency comes immediately after her wire-to-wire major championship victory at The Chevron Championship in Houston just last month.

Despite the tight and unforgiving layout of the El Camaleon course, Korda has remained nearly flawless. She has recorded back-to-back bogey-free rounds, with her only dropped shot of the entire tournament occurring during the opening round on Thursday. Her ability to navigate the coastal winds of the Caribbean Sea was on full display at the par-3 15th, where she stuck a 9-iron to within two feet of the pin.

Thailand’s Arpichaya Yubol emerged as Korda’s closest challenger after a late surge. Yubol finished with consecutive birdies to post a 66, moving into second place at 11-under par. The Thai golfer, who celebrates her 24th birthday on Sunday, expressed her excitement at playing in the final group alongside her idol. Japan’s Minami Katsu sits a further shot back at 10-under par after signing for a 69.

Korda’s experience is a significant factor heading into the final 18 holes. While she chases her 18th career LPGA title, the four players closest to her on the leaderboard have yet to record a win on the tour. Korda emphasized the importance of mental relaxation following her recent major success. She noted that while her energy might not be at 100 percent, her focus remains entirely on avoiding the "big mistakes" that the Mayakoba course often punishes.

Nelly Korda Dominates Riviera Maya Open With Three-Shot Lead After Spectacular Eagle Finish

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