Nelly Korda, a name synonymous with excellence in women’s golf, is currently navigating a challenging 2025 season that falls short of her illustrious past. The year kicked off with promise as she showcased her skills with a runner-up finish at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, followed by a commendable top-10 showing at the Founders Cup. However, her subsequent performances have raised eyebrows, including a tie for 22nd at the Ford Championship and an underwhelming tie for 28th at the T-Mobile Match Play. While Korda did manage to tie for fifth at the Kroger Queen City Championship, a disheartening tie for 66th at the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship has left fans questioning her consistency. Once basking in the glow of being the World No. 1, Korda’s slip down the rankings this season has been stark and undeniable.
Amidst this struggle, Korda is seizing her time away from the greens to recharge and refocus. Recently, she shared a slice of her life outside of golf with her followers, posting a delightful snapshot enjoying a moment in New York City. With a cup of Devoción Coffee in hand, she captured the essence of her day in a blurry yet charming photo, declaring, “Devocionusa is always a must.” This glimpse into her off-course pursuits underscores the balance she seeks between the pressures of professional golf and personal rejuvenation.
The earlier part of Korda’s season featured some notable highlights, including a tie for 16th at the JM Eagle LA Championship and a respectable 14th at the Chevron Championship. Her standout moment came during the U.S. Women’s Open in May, where she finished tied for second, pocketing over $1 million in the process. However, despite these flashes of brilliance, she struggled to maintain momentum, wrapping up her appearances with a tie for fifth at the Mizuho Americas Open and a disappointing 15th at the ShopRite LPGA Classic.
In her most recent outing, Korda paid tribute to the legendary Stacy Lewis, who announced her retirement before the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship. Lewis, a two-time major champion and former captain of Team USA in the Solheim Cup, has been a towering figure in women’s golf and a source of inspiration for many, including Korda. Reflecting on Lewis’ impact, Korda remarked, “Honestly ever since my rookie year, she’s (Lewis) someone that has done so much for American women’s golf and women’s golf in general. Getting to know her through Solheim Cup, her captaincy, has been so so fun. Getting to share this round with her the next two days has been incredible. But at the end of the day she’s someone that I looked up to. She’s such a great role model. And I wish her all the best in her next chapter in her life.”
Lewis has not only left an indelible mark on the sport as a player, competing in four Solheim Cups, but also as a captain, leading Team USA to victory in 2024 at the prestigious Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. Korda’s firsthand experience alongside Lewis has provided her with invaluable lessons on handling pressure at the highest levels of competition.
As Nelly Korda continues to navigate the complexities of her season, her resilience and ability to embrace both the highs and lows of professional golf will undoubtedly define her journey in the months ahead. Whether on the course or off, Korda remains a figure to watch, balancing the weight of expectations with a refreshing approach to life and sport.
