Nelly Korda has solidified her position as one of the most prominent figures in women’s golf, captivating fans with her exceptional talent, poise, and versatility. As the World No. 1 golfer, Korda’s journey from a young prodigy to a global sports icon is a testament to her dedication and skill. 

This article delves into her illustrious career, recent achievements, personal life, and the buzz surrounding her on platforms like YouTube, addressing the questions people are asking online. With a focus on the latest information available as of May 16, 2025, this comprehensive piece aims to inform and engage readers about the phenomenon that is Nelly Korda.

A Family of Athletes

Born on July 28, 1998, in Bradenton, Florida, Nelly Korda hails from a family of elite athletes. Her father, Petr Korda, is a former professional tennis player and 1998 Australian Open champion, while her mother, Regina Rajchrtová, also competed professionally in tennis. Nelly’s older sister, Jessica Korda, is a fellow LPGA Tour player, and her younger brother, Sebastian, is a rising tennis star. This athletic lineage provided Nelly with a nurturing environment to pursue sports from a young age.

Nelly began playing golf at six, showing early promise in junior tournaments. Her competitive spirit was evident as she balanced golf with other sports like tennis, but golf soon became her primary focus. By her teens, she was competing in high-profile junior events, including the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship, where she gained attention for her powerful swing and mental toughness.

Turning Professional

Korda turned professional in 2016 at the age of 17, joining the Symetra Tour (now the Epson Tour), the developmental circuit for the LPGA. Her breakthrough came quickly, as she earned her LPGA Tour card for the 2017 season after a strong performance on the Symetra Tour. Her early years on the LPGA were marked by steady progress, with her first professional win coming in 2018 at the Swinging Skirts LPGA Taiwan Championship. This victory signaled the arrival of a new star in women’s golf.

Career Highlights and Achievements

The 2024 LPGA season was a defining moment for Nelly Korda, as she achieved unprecedented success. She won seven tournaments, including five consecutive victories, a feat only accomplished by golfing legends Annika Sorenstam and Nancy Lopez. Her wins included the Ford Championship, T-Mobile Match Play, The Annika, and the Chevron Championship, her second major title. The Chevron Championship victory, where she carded consistent rounds of 68, 69, 69, and 69, earned her $1.2 million and cemented her status as a major champion.

Korda’s 2024 season was historic, as she became only the second golfer since Yani Tseng (2011) to win seven titles in a single LPGA season. Her dominance earned her the LPGA Player of the Year award, a first in her career, and she regained the World No. 1 ranking, a position she has held with a significant margin.

2025 Season: Challenges and Resilience

The 2025 season has been a mixed bag for Korda, as she has yet to secure a victory despite strong performances. At the Chevron Championship, where she was the defending champion, Korda struggled with a 5-over 77 in the opening round, finishing T14 at 2-under. Her round included four consecutive bogeys, and she experimented with a mallet putter after a disappointing performance with her blade putter. Despite the setback, Korda’s determination was evident as she practiced extensively post-round, showcasing her commitment to improvement.

At the Mizuho Americas Open in May 2025, Korda was in contention, sharing the lead after two rounds with a score of 8-under 136. However, she faltered in the final round, shooting a 1-over 73 to finish tied for fifth, six shots behind winner Jeeno Thitikul. A critical bogey on the ninth hole, after driving into a hazard, halted her momentum. Despite these challenges, Korda’s consistency is notable, with three top-10 finishes in seven LPGA starts this year and only one missed cut at the T-Mobile Match Play.

Korda’s next scheduled events include the Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba on May 22 and the U.S. Women’s Open, the second major of the season, where she aims to add to her major tally.

Major Championships and Records

Korda has two major championships to her name: the 2021 Women’s PGA Championship and the 2024 Chevron Championship. Her 2021 win at the Women’s PGA marked her first major title, propelling her to the World No. 1 ranking for the first time. The 2024 Chevron victory was particularly significant, as it was part of her five-tournament winning streak, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.

Her 15 LPGA Tour victories, including seven in 2024, place her among the elite in women’s golf. Korda’s swing, described as having “virtually zero unnecessary movements,” has been praised for its efficiency and power, contributing to her consistent success.

Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Debut

In May 2025, Korda made headlines with her debut in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2025 issue, becoming the first female golfer to feature in the publication since Natalie Gulbis in 2012. Photographed by Ben Horton in Boca Raton, Florida, Korda stunned in vibrant bikinis, exuding confidence and elegance. 

The shoot was a departure from her comfort zone, but Korda embraced the challenge, stating, “I think that’s what life is about, sometimes challenging yourself.” Her goal was to inspire others to “rock what they got,” aligning with her mission to empower young girls.

The photoshoot generated significant buzz, with fans and media praising her versatility. Posts on X celebrated her as a “sports and style icon,” reflecting her growing influence beyond golf.

Tattoo Revelation

Korda surprised fans in 2025 by revealing a new tattoo, inked by a New York-based artist during her LPGA hiatus. The bold design, showcased on Instagram, sparked intrigue and admiration, with fans noting her “fearless and creative side.” This personal transformation added a new layer to her public persona, highlighting her willingness to express herself authentically.

Endorsements and Partnerships

Korda’s marketability has led to lucrative endorsement deals with major brands, including Nike, TaylorMade Golf, Richard Mille, TUMI, Delta Air Lines, BMW Group, Cisco, T-Mobile, Whoop, Goldman Sachs, Grant Thornton, and EY. Her 2023 Nike deal saw her switch to their apparel and footwear, notably wearing the $220 Victory Tour 4 golf shoes and Air Pegasus 2025 sneakers. These partnerships reflect her status as a leading figure in sports, following in the footsteps of Nike ambassadors like Michelle Wie West.

In April 2025, Korda collaborated with Tiger Woods for a TaylorMade Golf tutorial video, demonstrating shots from 89 to 113 yards. The video, posted on YouTube, highlighted her technical expertise and chemistry with Woods, a 15-time major champion. Fans lauded the pairing, with the video garnering significant views and engagement.

The Nelly Invitational

Korda’s commitment to inspiring the next generation is evident through her involvement with the Nelly Invitational, a collaboration with the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) and TaylorMade Golf. The 2025 event featured 66 top junior girls competing in a 54-hole stroke play tournament, with the winner earning an exemption to the 2025 Chevron Championship. 

Korda praised winner Aphrodite Deng, calling her “super consistent” and expressing excitement for her future. The invitational underscores Korda’s role as a mentor and advocate for young golfers.

Personal Life and Influence

Family and Support System: Korda often credits her family for her success, particularly her mother, Regina, whom she describes as “the glue that holds us together.” During the 2023 Founders Cup, she highlighted Regina’s role in their achievements, a sentiment echoed in her Mother’s Day Instagram post in 2025, where she sent a heartwarming message to “all the mommas.” Her close bond with her siblings, Jessica and Sebastian, provides a supportive network, with the Korda family frequently attending each other’s events.

Role Model and Inspiration: Korda’s mission to inspire young girls is a recurring theme in her interviews. She values the opportunity to interact with junior golfers, noting that seeing kids inspired to play golf is “one of the best things” about her job. Her work with the Nelly Invitational and appearances at junior clinics reflect this commitment. Korda’s authenticity and relatability make her a powerful influence, with fans on X calling her a “driving force” in women’s golf.

Addressing Challenges: Korda has faced scrutiny in 2025, particularly after the cancellation of the FIR HILLS SERI PAK Championship, which she felt betrayed by due to the LPGA’s handling of sponsor issues. She offered critical advice to the incoming LPGA commissioner, urging better communication to avoid such mishaps. Her candidness demonstrates her leadership and desire to improve the tour for future players.

Looking Ahead

As Korda prepares for the Riviera Maya Open and U.S. Women’s Open, the golf world anticipates her return to the winner’s circle. Her resilience, evident in her response to setbacks like the Chevron Championship, suggests she remains a formidable contender. Off the course, her growing media presence, from SI Swimsuit to YouTube tutorials, positions her as a crossover star, bridging sports and pop culture.

Korda’s impact extends beyond her 15 LPGA titles. She is redefining what it means to be a modern athlete, balancing athletic excellence with personal expression and social good. Whether she’s inspiring a young golfer at the Nelly Invitational or stunning fans in a bikini on a Boca Raton beach, Nelly Korda continues to captivate and inspire.

FAQs

What was her 2024 season like?

Nelly Korda had an extraordinary 2024 season, winning seven LPGA Tour events, including her second major title at the Chevron Championship. She also achieved five consecutive victories, a feat matched by only a few in LPGA history. Her performance earned her the Rolex Player of the Year and the Rolex Annika Major Award.

How did she perform in the 2025 season?

In 2025, Korda has continued to showcase her skills with consistent performances, including a runner-up finish at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions and a top-five finish at the Mizuho Americas Open. While she hasn’t secured a win yet, her steady play keeps her among the top contenders.

What is her background and family life?

Coming from a family of elite athletes, Nelly’s father, Petr Korda, won the 1998 Australian Open in tennis, and her mother, Regina Rajchrtová, was also a professional tennis player. Her older sister, Jessica, is a fellow LPGA Tour player, and her younger brother, Sebastian, is a rising tennis star. 

How did Nelly Korda start her golf career?

Nelly grew up in a family of athletes; her father Petr Korda was a professional tennis player, and her sisters Jessica and Kris are also professional tennis players. She turned professional in 2016 after a successful amateur career and quickly rose through the ranks with her strong performances.

What injuries or setbacks has Nelly Korda faced?

Nelly faced a significant setback in late 2021 due to a blood clot in her arm, which forced her to miss most of the 2022 season. Since then, she has made a strong comeback, regaining form and competing at a high level on tour in 2023 and 2024.

In Summary

Nelly Korda’s journey from a talented junior to the World No. 1 golfer is a story of perseverance, talent, and authenticity. Her 2024 season set a new standard for dominance, while her 2025 challenges highlight her resilience. Off the course, her SI Swimsuit debut, tattoo reveal, and YouTube presence have made her a multifaceted icon. 

As fans search for her swing tips, highlights, and personal moments online, Korda remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that greatness is achieved through hard work and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone. With her sights set on more majors and a lasting legacy, Nelly Korda is undoubtedly the reigning queen of golf.

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