Korda Battles Neck Injury at Women’s PGA Championship

World Number One Navigates Pain, Competes Despite Setback

The world of golf is watching as Nelly Korda, despite a recent neck injury, competes in the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. Her performance is drawing attention, especially given her history with injuries and the physical demands of the sport.

Korda’s Performance Amidst Pain

Nelly Korda began her first round with two birdies and two bogeys, concluding with an even-par 72. She’s currently dealing with a re-aggravated neck injury sustained in a practice round, specifically when she hit a shot from the rough. The pain is mostly felt when rotating her neck, impacting her sleep.

Lydia Ko had a challenging start, beginning with a birdie, followed by four bogeys. Her opening round of three-over 75 demonstrates the difficulties of the course.

“It’s better, yeah. Getting better every day, which is nice,”

—Nelly Korda

Korda’s experience with neck injuries has been noted, including a previous minor injury that caused her to withdraw from two LPGA tournaments in Asia. The average recovery time for such injuries in professional athletes can range from a week to several months, depending on severity.

Course Challenges and Korda’s Resilience

During her opening round, Korda achieved several pars. At the seventh hole, she drove 268 meters, her approach shot ricocheting off the green before she recovered with a two-foot putt for par. On the eighth, her tee shot went over the green, leading to a bogey. At the ninth, after her approach settled near a temporary structure, she rebounded with a birdie putt.

Korda is currently four shots behind Jeeno Thitikul, who is ranked second in the world, and is the early leader at 4-under 68. The windy and hot conditions in Texas added to the round’s intensity, according to Korda.

The third major of the year is now underway, and Korda’s ability to compete despite injury is a testament to her drive.