Nelly Korda is one of the most talented women golfers in the world right now, and she believes that the sport can continue to grow with a new mixed-team event. The 23-year-old received high praise after participating in the QBE Shootout, where she played against two PGA Tour players, and now she’s excited to be part of the first annual mixed-team competition between the two tours since 1999.
The Grant Thornton Invitational, which will replace the QBE Shootout, will feature 16 LPGA Tour players and 16 PGA Tour players competing for a $4 million prize purse. Korda is particularly excited to play with Tony Finau, who is known for his friendly personality and solid playing skills.
Growing Women’s Golf
Korda believes that the mixed-team event is the perfect next step in the growth of women’s golf. She thinks it’s important to take things step by step and learn from mistakes in order to make the foundation stronger. Having respect, according to Korda, is just as important as having equality in the sport.
Korda is also excited to be a part of a unique and different event that will bring men and women together on the course. The event will allow players to experience different playing styles and gain a new perspective on the game.
Solheim Cup
While Korda is excited about the mixed-team event, she’s also focused on the Solheim Cup, which is the most important team event for her this season. The competition will take place in September at the Finca Cortesin Golf Club in Andalucía, Spain.
The US Team will be under pressure to prevent a European three-peat, following defeats at Gleneagles, Scotland in 2019 and a home loss at Inverness Club, Ohio in 2021. Korda was on the losing side on both occasions, and she’s determined to taste Solheim Cup victory for the first time.
With herself, her sister Jessica, Lexi Thompson, Danielle Kang, Lilia Vu, and Jennifer Kupcho all enjoying strong seasons, US Team captain Stacy Lewis is spoilt for choice to pick her 12-player roster.
Korda’s Strong Performances
Korda is currently ranked second in women’s golf, behind Lydia Ko of New Zealand. She had a successful run of performances at the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, including victory at the Pelican Women’s Championship.
In May, Korda made her fourth season start at the US Women’s Open after withdrawing from the Chevron Championship in March due to a blood clot in her arm.
The defense of her title at the Pelican Women’s Championship marked a cathartic moment for Korda, who was overcome with emotion after her win. She believes that every year, she’s striving to be her best self, both on the golf course and as a person. If she can have fun and stay healthy, then she knows that she can perform her best.
Nelly Korda is undoubtedly one of the most exciting players to watch in women’s golf right now. Her passion for the game is evident in every shot she takes, and she’s determined to continue improving and pushing the sport to new heights. With her sights set on the Solheim Cup and the new mixed-team event, it’s clear that Korda is a force to be reckoned with in the world of golf.
