The Fine Line Between Aggression and Calculation: Lessons from the US Women's Open
There’s something about the US Women’s Open that always feels like a battle of wills—not just between players, but between competing philosophies of the game. This year’s tournament at Riviera Country Club was no exception, and it left me thinking deeply about the delicate balance between aggression and calculation in golf. Charley Hull’s near-miss and Nelly Korda’s triumph weren’t just a display of skill; they were a study in contrasting styles and what it takes to win at the highest level.
Hull’s All-Out Attack: A Double-Edged Sword
Charley Hull’s approach to golf is nothing short of exhilarating. Her weekend charge at Riviera—a record-equalling 132 over the final two rounds—was a masterclass in fearless play. Personally, I think what makes Hull so captivating is her willingness to embrace risk when others might hesitate. Her mantra, “shy girls don’t get sweets,” sums up her mindset perfectly. But here’s the thing: while her aggression brings out the best in her, it also leaves her vulnerable to the kind of mistakes that cost her the title.
What many people don’t realize is that Hull’s style is both her greatest strength and her Achilles’ heel. Her ability to make a “massive charge” from behind is thrilling, but it’s also a reminder that golf, especially at the major level, often rewards consistency over spectacle. If you take a step back and think about it, Hull’s five runner-up finishes in majors suggest that she’s knocking on the door—but she might need to adjust her approach to kick it down.
Korda’s Pragmatic Mastery: The Art of Grinding It Out
Nelly Korda, on the other hand, is a study in pragmatism. Her win at Riviera wasn’t just about brilliance; it was about patience and precision. One thing that immediately stands out is her ability to stay in the moment, a skill she credits to her caddie, Jason McDede. “One shot at a time” might sound like a cliché, but Korda’s execution of this philosophy is what sets her apart.
From my perspective, Korda’s victory highlights a broader truth about major championships: they’re not just about talent; they’re about mental fortitude. Her composure on the greens, especially that nerve-shredding putt on the 18th, was the difference between winning and losing. What this really suggests is that while aggression can get you close, it’s often the ability to grind it out that seals the deal.
The Psychology of Winning: What Hull Can Learn
Here’s a detail that I find especially interesting: Hull’s putting was vastly improved in the final rounds, yet she still missed crucial putts at the ninth, 12th, and 14th holes. In contrast, Korda gained over three shots on the greens compared to the field. This raises a deeper question: could Hull benefit from adopting some of Korda’s measured approach?
Personally, I think Hull’s “go for it” mentality is part of what makes her such an exciting player, but it’s also worth considering whether a bit more calculation could elevate her game. If you take a step back and think about it, the majors are won by players who know when to attack and when to hold back. Hull’s talent is undeniable, but her next breakthrough might depend on finding that balance.
The Broader Implications: Trends in Women’s Golf
This tournament also reflects a larger trend in women’s golf: the rise of players who combine technical prowess with mental toughness. Korda’s dominance—four wins and three runner-up finishes in 2026—is a testament to her all-around game. Meanwhile, Hull’s consistent top-20 finishes show that she’s always in contention.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how these players are redefining what it means to compete at the highest level. Korda’s success isn’t just about her swing or her putting; it’s about her ability to stay calm under pressure. Hull, meanwhile, is proving that aggression can be a winning strategy—if executed with precision.
Final Thoughts: The Door Is Open for Hull
As I reflect on this year’s US Women’s Open, I’m left with a sense of optimism for Charley Hull. Her near-miss at Riviera wasn’t a failure; it was a reminder of how close she is to major glory. In my opinion, Hull has everything it takes to win—she just needs to fine-tune her approach.
If you take a step back and think about it, golf is a game of margins. Korda’s win and Hull’s second place were separated by just a few putts and a few decisions. For Hull, the door to major success isn’t just knocking; it’s wide open. She just needs to walk through it—perhaps with a bit more calculation and a lot of the fearless spirit that makes her one of the most exciting players in the game.
It would be a shame if we don’t soon hear Hull saying something similar to Korda’s post-win reflection: “I’m just extremely proud of my fight this week and the dream of that little girl that you kind of get to check that off your bucket list.” Because, in the end, that’s what golf—and life—is all about: chasing dreams and learning how to turn them into reality.
