Unstoppable Nelly Korda Gears Up for the U.S. Women’s Open
LANCASTER, Pa. — Six. That's the number that’s become intertwined with Nelly Korda'snull recent success. It's a number no golfer wants to see on a scorecard unless the situation is dire, but for victories? Six is sweet.
At 25, Korda has been a dominant force this season, winning six LPGA Tour titles in just eight starts in 2024. This achievement makes her the first to win six times in a year since Inbee Park in 2013 and the first to do so before June 1 since Lorena Ochoa in 2008.
Korda has triumphed in all conditions, from cold rain to bright sunshine, and in various formats, whether in playoffs or tight head-to-head matches. This versatility under pressure highlights her greatest strength: unflappability.
With 14 LPGA Tour wins, Korda's prowess has not gone unnoticed by her peers, even those she has bested recently. Many expect her to be a contender again at the U.S. Women’s Open this week.
Despite the buzz around her potential seventh win, Korda remains focused and insulated in Pennsylvania. She’s tuning out the noise at Lancaster Country Club, staying true to her routine. While there's speculation on how she should handle the spotlight and her ceiling for 2024, Korda knows that maintaining her focus on and off the course will lead to more victories.
“There are always expectations,” Korda said in her pre-tournament press conference. “But I don't want to lose who I am. Staying true to myself is crucial because, at the end of the day, I need to be proud of who I am. I strive to be honest and genuine with everyone around me, and I hope they see my pride in who I am. That's how I aim to grow the game.
“I approach each week wanting to win, but sometimes that's not realistic. I need to give my all every day, not just in golf but in my family, workouts, and life outside of golf. That's my priority.”
This approach has served Korda well, keeping her grounded even as she shines brightly. This week, she aims to fulfill a lifelong dream at the U.S. Women’s Open, a goal that now seems more attainable for the world’s top-ranked female golfer.
“The U.S. Women’s Open was my first event in 2013 at Sebonack. That’s when I realized this is my dream,” Korda said after her Mizuho AmericasMizuho Americas Open victory. “There have been tough times when I didn’t perform well in the U.S. Women's Open, putting extra pressure on myself because I love the event. It's my top priority. I know that too much pressure isn’t helpful. I plan to stay in my bubble and take it one shot at a time.”
Statistically, Korda is among the best, leading or ranking in the top five in numerous categories on the LPGA Tour. Yet, major championships are a formidable challenge, and Korda knows that Lancaster Country Club will demand her best to have a chance at lifting the Harton S. Semple trophy on Sunday.
“This course is tough. If you miss the fairways, the rough is punishing. The greens are small and undulated,” Korda explained. “It will test every aspect of your game and your mental strength. Mistakes can quickly escalate. It’s a major, and you have to stay focused.”
Fortunately, Korda’s game is exceptionally well-rounded. She leads the Tour in strokes gained total (+2.90) in 2024. Her confidence is high after a stellar run, and even winning without her best game has bolstered her self-belief.
Despite being the hottest player right now, Korda understands that past victories don't guarantee future success. Lancaster Country Club is indifferent to her six wins or her No. 1 ranking. It’s all about the quality of play, and that's Korda’s focus. Not history, not records—just the present challenge.
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