Nelly Korda, the defending champion, had a strong start at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, holding the clubhouse lead with an opening round of 3-under 69. Despite coming into the tournament off two consecutive missed cuts, Korda’s 2024 season has been historic with five consecutive victories and six overall, including a major win. A victory at this championship would put her in elite company, joining only three Americans who have won seven or more times in a single LPGA season since 1970.
Korda’s strategy on the course includes relying on her long-time caddie Jason McDede for advice, but she also takes more control of her decisions by having him provide distances and then making her own choices. This approach has helped her feel more confident and in control during her rounds. Additionally, she found success with her driver at the previous tournament, which could be crucial on Sahalee’s challenging course, where accuracy off the tee is essential for scoring opportunities.
The Sahalee Country Club presents a mental challenge for players, with its demanding layout that requires precision and patience. Despite this, some players, like Allisen Corpuz, thrive in these conditions by staying calm and playing a bit safer. Corpuz, the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open champion, opened with a solid round of 70, joining other competitors at 2 under, including Leona Maguire, Charley Hull, and Amy Yang.
For Korda, the pressure of a major championship subsided when she saw her nephew, Greyson DelPrete, outside the ropes on the first tee. The joy she felt from his presence helped her focus and perform well in her opening round. With her family cheering her on, Korda’s determination and skill could lead to another strong showing at this prestigious event. The history of American success at the Women’s PGA Championship adds to the significance of Korda’s potential achievement in 2024.
Korda’s opening round included highlights like three consecutive birdies and a closing birdie to finish on a positive note despite a double-bogey earlier in the round. Her ability to bounce back from setbacks and capitalize on opportunities demonstrates her resilience and competitiveness. With her recent success and continued improvement in various aspects of her game, Korda is a formidable contender for the title at Sahalee. The partnership between Korda and McDede, with their collaborative decision-making process, has been instrumental in her success and could be a key factor in her performance at this tournament.
As the competition at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship unfolds, players like Korda and Corpuz face challenges both on the course and within themselves. The mental strength required to navigate difficult conditions and maintain composure under pressure is a crucial element of success in major championships. With a combination of skill, strategy, and mindset, these athletes are poised to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level in women’s golf.
