Nelly Korda, the 25-year-old American golf sensation, etched her name into the annals of LPGA Tour history with an awe-inspiring fifth consecutive victory at The Chevron Championship. Her remarkable feat places her alongside legendary players Nancy Lopez and Annika Sorenstam as the only golfers to achieve this remarkable milestone.
Dominance on the Course
Korda’s journey to this historic win was nothing short of spectacular. Let’s delve into the thrilling moments that unfolded during the tournament:
The Final Round
On Sunday morning, Korda completed the last seven holes of her third round, posting a 3-under 69. She entered the final round tied for second place alongside Brooke Henderson, just one shot behind 54-hole leader Haeran Ryu. The stage was set for a gripping battle.
Back-to-Back Birdies
As her groupmates faltered, Korda seized the opportunity. Back-to-back birdies on holes three and four propelled her to a two-shot lead over 2024 LPGA Tour rookie Jin Hee Im. By the turn, Korda had carded a 33, maintaining a three-shot advantage.
The Tense Moments
Lauren Coughlin, charging up the leaderboard, narrowed the gap with birdies on holes 10 and 11. However, Korda’s bogey on the 11th hole was her first shot given back to the field since Friday. With just a handful of holes remaining, Korda held a four-shot lead.
Stark’s Resurgence
Swedish golfer Maja Stark, seemingly out of contention, birdied the 17th hole and nearly eagled the 18th. Her tap-in birdie brought her to 11-under, trailing Korda by just one shot.
The Decisive Moment
Undeterred, Korda maintained her composure. On the par-3 17th hole, she nearly aced it, settling for a par. With a two-shot lead heading into the final hole, Korda’s drive found the fairway. Her second shot left her within 30 feet of the hole, tantalizingly close to an eagle. Although her eagle attempt missed, she confidently sank the birdie putt to secure her second major title and the coveted Dinah Shore Trophy.
A Place in History
Nelly Korda’s remarkable achievement transcends mere statistics. Her five consecutive wins showcase not only her exceptional skill but also her mental fortitude and unwavering determination. As she basks in the glory of her latest triumph, golf fans worldwide eagerly await her next chapter on the fairways.
In the words of Korda herself, “Whoa, Nelly!” Indeed, her name is now etched in golfing lore, forever synonymous with excellence and resilience.
