Heartbreak at Erin Hills: Nelly Korda’s Near-Miss at the U.S. Women’s Open

By Zephyr Melton | June 1, 2025

Erin, Wisconsin, witnessed another compelling chapter in women’s golf as Nelly Korda fell just short of claiming the U.S. Women’s Open title. After a taxing and traumatic experience last summer at Lancaster Country Club, where she posted a staggering 80 and missed the cut, Korda returned with hope and determination. However, despite her resilient performance, the outcome remained painfully familiar: another close yet unattainable finish.

The 2025 U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills proved to be a mixed bag for Korda. Her performance was commendable, highlighted by three rounds of par or better, with a standout five-under 67 in Round 2. Despite all her hard work, in the final stretch, it was Maja Stark who ultimately seized the championship crown, leaving Korda in the bittersweet position of the runner-up.

Korda’s journey is evocative of a gladiator in the arena, where triumph and despair coexist. As she reflected on her experience, she was candid in her assessment of the disappointment. "Just an absolute heartbreaker," she lamented, combating the relentless nature of the sport she loves.

At age 14, Korda first set foot in the U.S. Women’s Open, and since then, no championship has loomed larger in her mind. Despite her best efforts in this latest endeavor, once again, the coveted trophy eluded her grasp. Sunday afternoon ended with Stark dominating the scoreboard, ultimately positioning Korda and Rio Takeda as the leading chasers.

The remarkable conditions at Erin Hills showcased Korda’s talents but also exposed her vulnerabilities. It’s a stark reminder of the sport’s unpredictable nature. As Stark stood on the 18th green with a commanding three-shot lead, Korda, who had fulfilled her part on the leaderboard, could only hope for a miraculous reversal that never came.

With the U.S. Women’s Open title within her reach yet again, Korda faced moments of reflection. She recalled the adrenaline that charged her as she approached the final holes. "When you come so close and feel that adrenaline coming down 18, the one thing you want to do is hold the trophy at the end of the day,” she noted somberly.

While Stark found success during putting, Korda struggled with her own game on the greens, ranking 52nd in Strokes Gained: Putting, which crushed her bid for victory. In a sport where precision is paramount, Korda’s challenges mirrored the experiences of many competitors throughout history, reminding us that even the best can falter under pressure.

Despite her placing, Korda’s performance on the course was impressive. She demonstrated her strength in driving, securing the top spot in Strokes Gained: Driving. The week was a testament to her talent, one that many believed would lead to redemption. Yet, with each missed putt, the echoes of past near-misses crept closer.

“I just need to continue knocking on the door,” Korda stated, emphasizing her commitment to excellence. Her attitude reflects the resilience that professionals must cultivate: pushing forward even when faced with setbacks. Each tournament is an opportunity, and Korda remains determined to turn heartbreak into triumph.

In the world of sports, especially golf, the thin line between victory and defeat often hinges on mere strokes. As Korda rallied her thoughts after the final round at Erin Hills, she reminded herself— and her fans— that persistence is key. "I’ll pray that some putts go in," she declared, showcasing her hopeful spirit as she aims to convert her near-misses into championship wins.

In examining the nuances of Korda’s performance and the shifting tides of professional golf, one thing is clear: the U.S. Women’s Open remains a pinnacle event that continues to shape the careers of its champions and challengers alike. With each passing year, the stakes rise, and the resilience of players like Korda will ultimately yield the success they deserve.

As the sun sets over Erin Hills, the stage has been set for new narratives in women’s golf. Korda’s journey, marked by both heartbreak and hope, underscores the inspiring stories woven into the fabric of the U.S. Women’s Open. Only time will tell when Korda will finally lift that elusive trophy, but one thing is certain: her tenacity will continue to inspire future generations of golfers striving for greatness.