How does the defending women’s Olympic golf gold medallist feel ahead of this week at Le Golf National? Nelly Korda spoke to press on Monday
It’s nearly time for the women to take to the Olympic golf stage and we’re sure, regardless of her achievements this year, there was always going to be a lot of excitement around defending Olympic champion Nelly Korda.
As the American looks to add another medal to her collection, she is ready to embrace her own excitement and the challenges that come from defending a gold medal. Korda, who captured the title in Tokyo three years ago, is back on the Olympic stage with a blend of nostalgia and determination.
“It’s amazing,” Korda shared about returning to the Olympic cycle. Since arriving in Paris, she has filled her time with new experiences, including watching other sports. “I caught Katie Ledecky win the 800, which was really cool,” she said, highlighting a lifelong passion for swimming and gymnastics.
Having played 18 holes at Le Golf National on Monday, Korda praised the course’s beauty and complexity. “You have to hit the ball really well out here,” she observed, noting the thick rough and water hazards that will test her skills.
Building on an Olympic / Major double
Until Sunday and Scottie Scheffler’s gold medal, Korda was the only player to have achieved both a Major and a gold medal in the same year. “That was my first major,” she recalled. “Getting to share the Olympic experience with my sister was such an amazing experience.” The emotional rush of standing on the podium was unparalleled. “I had a couple tears roll down my face,” she admitted, describing her Tokyo moment as a dream come true.
Reflecting on her journey since Tokyo, Korda acknowledged significant personal and professional growth. “I’ve gone through a lot of stuff on the golf course, off the golf course,” she said. The experiences have made her more grateful and resilient. “You can either shatter or you can rise and grow,” she noted.
Despite the different setting and the passage of time, Korda remains focused on the task at hand. “It doesn’t really feel like I’m defending, really,” she said. Instead, she aims to enjoy the experience, the fans, and the honour of being a two-time Olympian.
Nelly Korda has rebuilt her bubble ready for the Olympics
Balancing the intensity of competition, her recent run of form that hasn’t matched her start to the season and the unique atmosphere of the Olympics is a challenge Korda is ready for. “Your bubble is going to burst sometimes,” she admitted. However, the support from her team helps her rebuild and stay focused. “Making sure that I stay in my bubble is always really important.”
After a year of so many highs, but with a smattering of lows, Korda’s continued drive to be the best is a testament to her perseverance. “If I just continue working hard, and doing what I need to do, the results show after,” she said, confident in her preparation and ability to compete at the highest level.
As Nelly Korda tees off in Paris at 9:55am local time on Wednesday, there is no doubt that the world’s eyes will be on her but with a blend of humility, gratitude, and determination, she will be ready to defend her title and continue making her mark on the Olympic stage.
The round one and two tee times have been released – find out the women’s Olympic golf competition tee times here. View the full women’s Olympic golf competition leaderboard here.
