Korda makes impressive start at Chevron Championship

American golfer Jessica Korda has made a statement start at the Chevron Championship, carding a 6-under-par 66 in the opening round to sit just two shots off the early lead at Carlton Woods in Texas.

Watch the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HG7SRFxT57w

Korda, who won this event in 2012, showed no signs of rust as she navigated the challenging Jack Nicklaus Signature Course with confidence, recording six birdies against no bogeys in her morning wave.

"The conditions were perfect this morning," Korda said after her round. "The greens were receptive, and I was rolling it really well. I gave myself plenty of chances and was able to convert most of them. It's a great way to start a major week."

The highlight of Korda's round came on the par-5 18th hole, where she drilled a 15-foot birdie putt to cap off her round in style. She credited her recent work with coach Gary Gilchrist for the crisp ball-striking that allowed her to attack the pin on numerous occasions.

Defending champion Min Woo Lee, representing South Korea, sits atop the leaderboard at 8-under, having completed a flawless back nine with five consecutive birdies. Fellow major winners Patty Tavatanakit and Minjee Lee are also in contention at 5-under.

Korda's strong start puts her in prime position heading into the weekend, and the veteran campaigner is no stranger to major championship pressure, having competed in nine Solheim Cups for Team USA.

"Major championships are different," Korda explained. "The margins are smaller, and the stakes are higher. But I've been in this position before, and I know what it takes. I'm excited for the next three days and looking forward to the challenge."

The Chevron Championship, the first women's major of the 2026 season, continues through Sunday with the traditional Amen Corner holes providing plenty of drama and scoring opportunities for the world's best female golfers.