In a stunning display of golfing prowess, Nelly Korda secured her seventh LPGA Tour title of the 2024 season with a thrilling come-from-behind victory at The Annika tournament in Belleair, Florida. The 25-year-old sensation staged a spectacular Sunday comeback, firing off five consecutive birdies on the back nine to overtake the competition and claim a three-shot triumph.
Korda, who had been away from competition for nearly two months due to a minor neck injury, showed no signs of rust as she navigated the challenging Pelican Golf Club layout. Despite a shaky start that saw her make the turn at two-over par for the day, the young phenom refused to let her title hopes slip away.
A Birdie Blitz for the Ages
Starting on the 11th hole, Korda unleashed a barrage of birdies that left her competitors stunned and the galleries in awe. Her laser-like approach shots and clutch putting display demonstrated the poise and determination of a true champion.
As Korda later revealed, her mindset was far from positive when she made the turn two shots behind England’s Charley Hull. “I didn’t have many happy thoughts,” she admitted. But in a testament to her mental fortitude, the young American dug deep and found the resolve to mount her charge.
Chasing History and Greatness
With this latest victory, Korda became the first player to win seven times in a single season since Taiwan’s Yani Tseng accomplished the feat in 2011. The last American to achieve such dominance was Beth Daniel, who also notched seven wins back in 1990.
Korda’s 2024 campaign has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this year, she tied an LPGA record by winning five consecutive events, cementing her status as the game’s most formidable force. Her ability to stage thrilling comebacks has become a hallmark of her success, with four of her seven victories this season coming after trailing heading into the final round.
A Family Affair
Adding to the excitement of Korda’s triumph was the presence of her younger brother, Sebastian, who took a break from his burgeoning tennis career to witness his sister’s incredible performance. It marked the first time Sebastian had seen Nelly win in person, making the moment all the more special for the close-knit Korda family.
“After taking some time off with an injury, it feels great to be back out here,” Korda said. “Nothing like being in the hunt, the adrenaline feeling on the back nine, and being in contention. I love it so much.”
The Road Ahead
With her victory at The Annika, Korda surpassed the $4 million mark in season earnings, further solidifying her position as the LPGA Tour’s undisputed top player. Her sights are now set on the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship in Naples, where a win would see her pocket one of the largest prizes in women’s golf – a staggering $4 million.
As Nelly Korda continues to etch her name in the annals of golfing history, fans and pundits alike are left to marvel at the raw talent, unwavering determination, and infectious personality that have made her the face of women’s golf. With each passing victory, the young American superstar further cements her legacy and sets the stage for even greater triumphs to come.
Korda’s 2024 campaign has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this year, she tied an LPGA record by winning five consecutive events, cementing her status as the game’s most formidable force. Her ability to stage thrilling comebacks has become a hallmark of her success, with four of her seven victories this season coming after trailing heading into the final round.
A Family Affair
Adding to the excitement of Korda’s triumph was the presence of her younger brother, Sebastian, who took a break from his burgeoning tennis career to witness his sister’s incredible performance. It marked the first time Sebastian had seen Nelly win in person, making the moment all the more special for the close-knit Korda family.
“After taking some time off with an injury, it feels great to be back out here,” Korda said. “Nothing like being in the hunt, the adrenaline feeling on the back nine, and being in contention. I love it so much.”
The Road Ahead
With her victory at The Annika, Korda surpassed the $4 million mark in season earnings, further solidifying her position as the LPGA Tour’s undisputed top player. Her sights are now set on the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship in Naples, where a win would see her pocket one of the largest prizes in women’s golf – a staggering $4 million.
As Nelly Korda continues to etch her name in the annals of golfing history, fans and pundits alike are left to marvel at the raw talent, unwavering determination, and infectious personality that have made her the face of women’s golf. With each passing victory, the young American superstar further cements her legacy and sets the stage for even greater triumphs to come.
