While the 2025 Dow Championship unfolds at Midland Country Club, the spotlight is on the absent world No. 1 golfer, Nelly Korda. Opting to skip the competition for the $3.3 million prize, Korda has chosen to unwind with a serene beach picnic, signaling a much-needed pause from the LPGA Tour’s demanding schedule.
Highlights from Korda’s Recent Season Before Her Beach Escape
Despite a packed calendar with 10 LPGA events this year, Nelly Korda is still chasing her first victory of the 2025 season. Her performance remains strong, making every cut and securing four top-10 finishes, including solo second place at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions and a shared runner-up spot at the U.S. Women’s Open.
Just prior to her beach getaway, Korda competed at the 2025 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in Texas, finishing tied for 19th. She openly acknowledged that her game was below her standards but found joy during a visit to a water park accompanied by her sister, Jessica Korda, providing a refreshing break from competition.
Challenging Conditions and Mental Fatigue Affect Korda’s Play
Throughout the championship, Korda described the course as unforgiving and the strong winds as a major obstacle. Speaking after her round, she revealed how exhausting the conditions were and highlighted the mental strain caused by the intense tournament atmosphere, underscoring the toughness of maintaining peak performance amid such challenges.
What This Break Means for Korda and Her Fans
As Korda enjoys her peaceful beach retreat, complete with picturesque views and casual moments like savoring “sashimi by the sea,” her supporters eagerly await her return to competitive play. Her break from the rigors of the LPGA Tour offers a chance to recharge, emphasizing her resilience and determination to remain a leading figure in women’s golf.
With her consistent top finishes and unwavering presence on the leaderboard, Korda’s comeback after this pause could signal an uptick in results, as she aims to convert her strong season performances into wins moving forward.
“Sashimi by the sea.” —Nelly Korda