In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills, Sweden's Maja Stark clinched her first major championship title with a total score of 7-under-par 281. Stark's consistent performance throughout the tournament, including a final-round even-par 72, allowed her to hold off strong challenges from world No. 1 Nelly Korda of the USA and Japan's Rio Takeda, both finishing tied for second at 5-under-par 283. 

Maja Stark of Sweden poses with the Harton S. Semple Trophy after winning  U.S. Women's Open  2025 at Erin Hills Golf Course (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

Korda, who had surged into contention with a second-round 67, faced challenges in the third round, recording a 73. Despite a resilient final-round 71, she was unable to overtake Stark.

The final day was marked by high tension, with Stark's birdie on the par-5 14th proving pivotal in extending her lead. Korda's missed par putt on the 13th hole further widened the gap, and despite Stark bogeying the final two holes, she maintained a two-shot advantage to secure the victory. 

 Nelly Korda of the United States reacts on the third green during the final round of the U.S. Women's Open 2025 at Erin Hills Golf Course (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty)

This victory not only earned Stark a USD 2.4 million prize from the tournament's USD 12 million purse but also solidified her status on the LPGA Tour. Her caddie, Jeff Brighton, likely received approximately USD 240,000, adhering to the customary 10% share of the winner's earnings. 

Stark's triumph marks her as the third Swedish woman to win the U.S. Women's Open, following in the footsteps of Annika Sörenstam, who last achieved this feat in 2006.

The 2025 U.S. Women's Open will be remembered for its high-stakes drama and the emergence of new talent, setting the stage for an exciting future in women's golf.