Nelly Korda and Haeran Ryu have been the standout performers in the women’s major championships this year, but can anyone halt their momentum as the AIG Women’s Open approaches? This week’s tournament at Royal Lytham & St Annes promises a thrilling showdown, with both athletes eyeing historic achievements. For the first time in LPGA history, two players have secured more than one major title in a single season. Korda captured the Chevron Championship and the U.S.
Women’s Open, while Ryu added the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and then triumphed in a dramatic playoff at the Amundi Evian Championship. Their dominance has set the stage for a potential triple‑major sweep, a feat not seen since Inbee Park’s three‑major run in 2013.
Ryu, in particular, hopes to match Park’s record by winning three consecutive majors, while Korda is chasing a career Grand Slam that would require a fourth distinct major victory. Both competitors have been paired together for the opening two rounds, playing on the early‑late side of the field. Korda enters the event as the pre‑tournament favourite, with many pundits believing the links layout at Royal Lytham & St Annes suits her aggressive yet precise game. Trish Johnson, speaking to Sky Sports, praised Korda’s transformation this season, noting a newfound confidence and happiness that have translated into exceptional performances.
“When she is at her very best, she is head and shoulders above everyone else,” Johnson said, adding that the course’s demanding conditions should play to Korda’s strengths. Korda’s most notable finish at the AIG Women’s Open came earlier this year when she tied for second place at St Andrews, a tournament won by Lydia Ko.
That event also featured a memorable three‑ball with Ko and Ryu, underscoring the close competition among the sport’s elite. Returning champion Miyu Yamashita also adds intrigue to the field. After breaking through with a victory at Royal Porthcawl last year, Yamashita has secured two additional LPGA Tour wins and now aims to become the first back‑to‑back major champion since Yani Tseng in 2011. Johnson highlighted Yamashita’s recent top‑five finish at the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open, suggesting the links will suit her “down to a tee.” On the home front, English hopefuls Lottie Woad and Charley Hull are vying to become the first English player to win a women’s major since Georgia Hall’s triumph at this venue.
Woad has posted top‑10 finishes in each of her two previous AIG Women’s Open appearances, while Hull has been runner‑up in two of the last three editions. Dame Laura Davies praised Hull’s consistency, noting her five runner‑up finishes in majors demonstrate a remarkable ability to stay in contention. "She has had five runner‑up finishes in majors, which is brilliant and shows she can go down the stretch," Davies said.
"I don’t remember her ever letting them go; someone always came and beat her." Davies also expressed confidence in Woad, describing her as calm under pressure and adept at handling the spotlight. "She doesn’t get too up and doesn’t get too down, and normally, around a links course, you’re going to get some bad breaks.
If you can handle them better than the rest, you might be the one standing with the trophies," Davies explained. The broadcast team for Sky Sports includes a roster of former players and commentators who will provide insight throughout the tournament. Trish Johnson will cover Miyu Yamashita, while Richard Kaufman, Christina Kim, and Catriona Matthew will each offer analysis on various competitors, ranging from Lydia Ko to Minami Katsu.
Additional voices such as Iona Stephen, Sarah Stirk, Sophie Walker, Jamie Weir, Ali Whitaker, and others will contribute to the coverage, ensuring viewers receive a comprehensive perspective on every round. Sky Sports remains the exclusive broadcaster of the AIG Women’s Open in the United Kingdom and Ireland. This year, the network has introduced a new "Featured Groups" segment, beginning at 9 a.m. on Thursday and Friday on Sky Sports Golf, followed by full coverage at 1 p.m.
The weekend rounds will be aired live from midday, providing six more hours of golf than any previous edition. Beyond the live television feed, fans can stream the tournament and additional golf content without a long‑term contract, offering flexible access to the action. Whether you prefer to watch the drama unfold on a traditional TV set or via an online platform, the options are designed to suit a wide audience.
In summary, the AIG Women’s Open presents a compelling narrative: two dominant major winners vying for a historic third title, a defending champion seeking back‑to‑back glory, and homegrown talent hoping to break a long‑standing drought for English golfers. With expert analysis, extensive coverage, and the allure of potential record‑breaking performances, this week’s competition promises to be one of the most exciting chapters in women’s golf this season. Stay tuned to Sky Sports Golf for live updates, expert commentary, and the chance to witness who will ultimately lift the coveted Claret Jug.