BREAKING News: Nelly Korda Announces Her Resignation and Departure from the LPGA Tour
In a stunning and unexpected announcement that has sent shockwaves through the world of professional golf, Nelly Korda has revealed her decision to resign from the LPGA Tour, citing a mix of personal challenges, professional fatigue, and a desire for change. The 26-year-old world No. 1, long considered the face of women’s golf, made the announcement early Friday morning via a video message posted on her social media accounts and followed it with a formal press release through her management team.
A Shocking Announcement
“This has not been an easy decision,” Korda said, appearing emotional in the video. “I’ve spent the last several months reflecting on my journey, my goals, and the toll that this life has taken on me both physically and mentally. I love the game of golf. It’s been my whole life. But right now, I need to step away — from the LPGA, from the spotlight, and from the relentless grind of tour life.”
Her voice quivered as she continued, “I know this may come as a disappointment or even an annoyance to some, and I understand. I didn’t want to walk away while I’m still at the top, but I also didn’t want to wait until I fell apart. This is about protecting myself and finding joy again — in golf, and in life.”
Career Highlights and Legacy
Korda’s departure marks the end — or perhaps a pause — of one of the most remarkable careers in modern women’s golf. A former Olympic gold medalist, major champion, and consistent world No. 1, she has become a global icon and a trailblazer for the sport.
Over the past five years, Korda has amassed:
14 LPGA Tour victories
1 Olympic gold medal (Tokyo 2021)
2 major championship wins
98 weeks at world No. 1 (as of May 2025)
Her style, charisma, and dominance on the course have made her a fan favorite and a powerful draw for the LPGA Tour. Analysts frequently compared her to legends like Annika Sörenstam and Lorena Ochoa, while fans embraced her dynamic presence and relentless drive.
The Growing Toll
While Korda has always exuded grace under pressure, insiders suggest that the strain has been growing for years. Behind the scenes, injuries, travel fatigue, and the burden of being the face of the LPGA have all taken their toll.
“She’s been playing through more pain than people realize,” said one close source familiar with Korda’s inner circle. “There’s physical pain, but also emotional burnout. She’s been under immense pressure, and it finally reached a breaking point.”
During the 2024 season, Korda suffered a minor back injury and pulled out of two tournaments. Though she returned strong in early 2025 with a dominant win at the Chevron Championship, signs of weariness were evident in interviews and public appearances.
Reaction from the Golf World
The LPGA issued a statement shortly after Korda’s announcement:
> “Nelly Korda has been a remarkable ambassador for our game and our tour. While we are saddened by her departure, we respect her decision and thank her for her contributions. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of young golfers.”
Fellow players also weighed in:
Lexi Thompson: “Gutted to hear this, but I understand completely. Wishing Nelly peace and happiness as she takes this next step.”
Brooke Henderson: “Nelly carried so much on her shoulders. She deserves a break and all the respect in the world.”
Jin Young Ko: “She made us all better players. The tour won’t be the same without her.”
Fans flooded social media with mixed emotions — admiration, disappointment, and curiosity about what comes next.
What’s Next for Korda?
In her message, Korda emphasized that she is not retiring from golf altogether — just stepping away from the competitive intensity of the LPGA Tour for the foreseeable future.
“I don’t know if this is forever,” she said. “I still love the game. I just need to love myself a little more right now. I want to travel for fun, spend time with my family, maybe explore other projects or passions I’ve put on hold.”
There are already rumors that Korda may pursue endeavors in sports broadcasting, business ventures in golf fashion, or even consider future involvement in youth development programs through the Korda family foundation.
A Moment of Transition
Korda’s departure marks a significant moment of transition for women’s golf. The LPGA has enjoyed unprecedented growth over the past five years, driven in no small part by Korda’s marketability and excellence. With her exit, the torch may pass to younger stars like Rose Zhang, Atthaya Thitikul, and Lilia Vu — but the void she leaves behind is undeniable.
As fans process the news, one thing remains clear: Nelly Korda’s impact on the LPGA and the sport as a whole will endure long after her final round.
“This isn’t goodbye forever,” Korda concluded. “It’s just goodbye for now.”