Ahead of the U.S. Women’s Open, Nelly Korda said being ranked No. 1 has been “an amazing accomplishment” and that she hopes it “inspires many, many girls.” She also praised LeBron James for his consistent support of women’s sports, saying his influence has hel
Nelly Korda is used to the kind of attention that follows a champion. Still, with the U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally approaching, the 27-year-old golfer made time to talk about what it feels like when the spotlight shifts—and when it doesn’t.
In an exclusive conversation with Access Hollywood’s Kit Hoover ahead of the tournament. Korda leaned into her current form on the course and the bigger moment around women’s golf. She called it “an amazing accomplishment” to be the number 1 ranked female golfer in the world. Then she tied that achievement to something she clearly wants to move beyond her own career: she said she hopes it “inspires many. many girls.”.
For Korda, the conversation wasn’t only about ranking and trophies. She also opened the door on personal milestones that fans have watched draw closer in real time. Korda spoke about her upcoming wedding plans to her fiancé, Casey Gunderson.
When the discussion turned to support for women’s sports, Korda pointed to LeBron James—specifically the way he’s shown up consistently. She said he “consistently reaches out and has helped elevate the game.”
Korda described the shift she’s noticed through his involvement. saying: “His viewers have now started to transition to women’s golf. and it’s just upped our interaction with them. so it’s amazing to see. He’s so sweet. I love how big of a nut he is about the game of golf. And. he’s just always been super supportive.” She added that. despite the connection. “the two athletes have yet to play together.”.
The U.S. Women’s Open isn’t just another stop on the schedule for Korda—it’s also a stage where she’s trying to carry more than just momentum. Even the number 13 has followed her into the build-up. She said, “It’s my favorite number.” She explained that “my parents are actually 13 days apart. That’s one. And then two my second Major was my 13th win. And I just always loved the number 13.”.
Korda’s next chapter begins immediately after this spotlighted stretch of conversation: the U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally runs June 4 through June 7, airing on NBC.
Nelly Korda LeBron James women’s golf U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally Casey Gunderson NBC number 13
LeBron really out here doing charity for women’s golf? good for them.
I don’t even watch golf but this is cool. Like why is LeBron giving attention to women’s sports now, better late than never right?
Wait she said LeBron’s viewers transitioned to women’s golf… so like the NBA fans just started watching because he said so? That’s not how sports works but ok. Also the article says she’s getting married to Casey Gunderson, is that confirmed or just rumor.
Number 13 like that’s her favorite… my grandma said 13 is bad luck but apparently it’s good luck for her. And the U.S. Women’s Open is June 4-7 on NBC, so I’ll probably forget and then see clips on TikTok anyway. LeBron is sweet though, I guess, I just wish more people would support without it being a whole headline.