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Nelly Korda Revealsthe One Item She Never Travels Without

Nelly Korda: The Golf Phenom Redefining the Fairway

In the world of professional golf, few names shine as brightly as Nelly Korda. At just 26 years old, the American golfer has already etched her name into the annals of the sport's history, blending raw talent with an unyielding work ethic that has propelled her to the pinnacle of women's golf. As she gears up for the 2025 Women's Scottish Open, Korda sat down for an exclusive interview, offering insights into her remarkable journey, her approach to the game, and the personal philosophies that drive her success. This conversation reveals not just a champion athlete, but a thoughtful individual navigating the pressures of fame, family legacy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence on the links.

Korda's story begins in a family steeped in athletic prowess. Born in Bradenton, Florida, to Czech tennis professionals Petr Korda and Regina Rajchrtová, Nelly grew up in an environment where competition was as natural as breathing. Her father won the 1998 Australian Open, and her mother competed at the highest levels of tennis. Adding to the family's sporting dynasty is her older sister, Jessica Korda, also a successful LPGA Tour player, and her brother Sebastian, who has made waves in professional tennis. "Sports were always part of our DNA," Korda reflects. "From a young age, we were encouraged to push ourselves, but it was never forced. Golf became my passion because it allowed me to be outdoors, to challenge myself mentally and physically in a way that felt uniquely mine."

Her entry into golf was almost serendipitous. Starting at age six, Korda quickly showed promise, but it wasn't until her teenage years that she began to dominate junior circuits. Turning professional in 2016, she wasted no time making an impact. Her first LPGA Tour victory came in 2018 at the Swinging Skirts LPGA Taiwan Championship, a win that signaled the arrival of a new force in women's golf. But it was her breakout year in 2021 that truly catapulted her to stardom. That season, Korda claimed her first major at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, followed by an Olympic gold medal in Tokyo, where she represented the United States with poise under immense pressure. "Winning the Olympics was surreal," she says. "It wasn't just about the medal; it was about representing something bigger than myself. The pressure was intense, but it taught me to embrace the moment rather than fear it."

Fast-forward to 2024, and Korda's dominance reached new heights. She embarked on an unprecedented winning streak, securing six victories in seven starts, including the Chevron Championship—her second major title. This run included triumphs at prestigious events like the LPGA Drive On Championship, the Ford Championship, and the Seri Pak Championship. Her ability to maintain consistency amid a grueling schedule has drawn comparisons to legends like Annika Sörenstam and Lorena Ochoa. Yet, Korda remains grounded. "Success isn't linear," she explains. "There are highs and lows. After my streak, I faced some injuries and setbacks, like the blood clot I dealt with in 2022. Those moments remind you that golf, like life, is about resilience. You learn more from the tough days than the easy ones."

As the conversation turns to the 2025 Women's Scottish Open, Korda's excitement is palpable. The event, set against the stunning backdrop of Scotland's rugged coastlines and historic courses, holds a special allure for her. "Scotland is the birthplace of golf, and playing there feels like connecting with the sport's roots," she says. "The wind, the links-style courses—they test every aspect of your game. It's not just about power; it's about strategy, creativity, and adapting to the elements." Korda has a strong track record in similar conditions, having performed well in previous British Opens and other wind-swept tournaments. For 2025, she's particularly focused on the Renaissance Club in East Lothian, where the tournament will be held. "I've played there before, and it's a beast. The fescue rough, the pot bunkers—it's unforgiving. But that's what makes it thrilling. I'm working on my short game and mental focus to handle whatever the weather throws at us."

Beyond the technicalities, Korda delves into her preparation routine, which is a blend of rigorous training and mindful recovery. She trains extensively at her home base in Florida, working with coach David Whelan on swing mechanics and putting drills. "Consistency is key," she notes. "I spend hours on the range, but I also prioritize rest. Golf can be mentally exhausting, so I incorporate yoga and meditation to stay centered." Off the course, Korda's life is a tapestry of interests that keep her balanced. She's an avid reader, often diving into books on psychology and personal development, and she enjoys fashion, frequently collaborating with brands like J. Lindeberg for stylish on-course apparel. "Golf fashion has evolved so much," she laughs. "It's not just about functionality anymore; it's about expressing yourself. I love pieces that are comfortable yet chic—think tailored pants and breathable tops that move with you."

Family remains a cornerstone of Korda's world. She speaks warmly of her close-knit clan, crediting them for her grounded perspective. "Jessica and I push each other, but we're also each other's biggest supporters," she says. "We've shared so many moments on tour—celebrating wins, commiserating losses. It's special." Her parents' influence is evident in her disciplined yet joyful approach to the game. "They taught me that hard work pays off, but so does enjoying the process. Golf isn't my whole identity; it's a part of who I am."

Looking ahead, Korda is optimistic about the future of women's golf. She praises the growing visibility of the LPGA Tour, with increased prize money and media coverage drawing new fans. "The sport is booming," she asserts. "We're seeing more young girls picking up clubs, inspired by what we're doing. Events like the Scottish Open showcase that talent and help elevate the game globally." For her own career, Korda has her sights set on more majors and perhaps even surpassing her current world No. 1 ranking. But she's quick to emphasize balance. "I want to keep winning, but I also want to live fully. Travel, explore new courses, maybe even take up new hobbies like photography."

In discussing challenges, Korda opens up about the mental toll of professional sports. "The spotlight can be overwhelming," she admits. "Social media amplifies everything—wins feel euphoric, losses sting harder. I've learned to set boundaries, to focus on my inner circle and my own goals rather than external noise." Her advice to aspiring golfers is straightforward: "Be patient with yourself. Golf teaches humility. Practice diligently, but remember to have fun. That's where the magic happens."

As our interview wraps up, Korda's poise and authenticity shine through. She's not just a golfer; she's a role model redefining what it means to be a modern athlete—fierce yet approachable, ambitious yet humble. With the 2025 Women's Scottish Open on the horizon, fans can expect Korda to bring her A-game, blending precision drives with that signature smile. Whether she's navigating a tricky par-5 or reflecting on her journey, Nelly Korda continues to inspire, proving that in golf and in life, the greatest victories come from within.

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[ https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/sporting/a65436584/nelly-korda-golfer-interview-2025-womens-scottish-open/ ]