In a stunning turn of events, Nelly Korda, the world’s No. 1 female golfer, has withdrawn from the LPGA Tour’s inaugural Riviera Maya Open, set to take place from May 22-25, 2025, at El Camaleon Golf Course in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The announcement, made just days before the tournament, has sent shockwaves through the golfing world, not only due to the unexpected withdrawal but also because of Korda’s cryptic and emotionally charged nine-word statement: “I can’t accept this; I need time away.” This declaration has sparked intense speculation and concern among fans, players, and analysts, leaving the LPGA Tour grappling with the absence of its biggest star.

Korda’s decision to pull out of the Riviera Maya Open comes as a surprise, given her dominant 2024 season, where she clinched six victories in her first eight starts, earning her the prestigious LPGA Player of the Year award. Her absence from this high-profile event, which features a 144-player field, is a significant blow to the tournament’s debut. According to sources, Korda’s withdrawal is linked to a deeply personal and undisclosed reason, which she has chosen not to elaborate on publicly. The ambiguity of her statement has fueled discussions about her well-being, with many wondering if the pressures of her meteoric rise have taken a toll.

The Riviera Maya Open was poised to showcase top talents like Jeeno Thitikul, Lilia Vu, Lydia Ko, and Yin Ruoning, but Korda’s absence shifts the spotlight. Her remarkable 2024 season included standout performances, such as her victories at the Ford Championship and The Annika driven by Gainbridge, where she has won twice. However, Korda has not competed since the Kroger Queen City Championship in September 2024, when she withdrew from subsequent Asian events due to a minor neck injury. While she recently resumed training, her sudden withdrawal from the Riviera Maya Open suggests that the issue may extend beyond physical recovery.

Korda’s nine-word statement, “I can’t accept this; I need time away,” has become the focal point of conversations within the golfing community. The phrase hints at a personal struggle, possibly related to the intense scrutiny and expectations that come with being the face of women’s golf. Unlike her usual composed demeanor, this statement reflects a rare vulnerability, prompting fans and fellow players to rally in support. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of encouragement, with many urging Korda to prioritize her mental and emotional health.

The LPGA Tour has faced challenges in recent years, including navigating the balance between growing its global presence and supporting its players’ well-being. Korda’s withdrawal underscores the need for greater attention to the mental health of athletes who face relentless schedules and public pressure. Her decision to step back could inspire other players to speak openly about their struggles, fostering a more supportive environment within the sport.

Despite her absence, the Riviera Maya Open will proceed with a strong field, including rising stars like Jeeno Thitikul, who recently won the 2025 PIF Saudi Ladies International, and Lilia Vu, a two-time major champion. However, Korda’s withdrawal casts a shadow over the event, as her star power and competitive spirit are unmatched. Fans are left wondering when she will return and what her statement truly means for her future in the sport.

As the golfing world processes this news, Korda’s legacy remains intact. Her contributions to the LPGA Tour, both on and off the course, have elevated women’s golf to new heights. Her decision to prioritize her personal needs, though shocking, reflects a courage that transcends her athletic achievements. The Riviera Maya Open will continue, but the absence of Nelly Korda serves as a reminder that even the greatest champions need time to heal and reflect. The golfing community now awaits her next move, hoping for clarity and her triumphant return to the fairways.