In an unprecedented moment at the U.S. Women’s Open 2025, world No. 1 Nelly Korda has sent shockwaves through the golf world by rejecting a multimillion-dollar Tesla-sponsored shirt advertisement proposed by Elon Musk—just 10 minutes ago! Following Rory McIlroy’s similar snub earlier this week, Korda’s powerful reasoning left Musk speechless, stunned the global media, and added a dramatic twist to her tournament run at Erin Hills, where she’s currently T2 at -5 after two rounds. Musk’s chilling warning—“She will regret rejecting”—has only fueled the fire of this unfolding saga!
The Stunning Rejection
The drama erupted during a press conference at Erin Hills, Wisconsin, following the completion of the second round of the U.S. Women’s Open (May 29 – June 1, 2025). Korda, who’s been a standout with birdies on her final holes to climb to T2 at -5, was addressing reporters when Elon Musk, the Tesla CEO known for his bold marketing moves, made a surprise appearance to offer a lucrative sponsorship deal. The proposal involved Korda wearing a Tesla-branded shirt for the remainder of the tournament, a deal reportedly worth millions, aimed at leveraging her global stardom.
But Korda, in a moment that left the room in stunned silence, declined the offer with unwavering resolve. “I’m here to play golf, not to be a billboard for anyone’s agenda,” Korda stated firmly. “This is the U.S. Women’s Open—it’s about the game, my fans, and my integrity. I respect Elon’s vision, but I won’t compromise mine.” Turning to Musk with a determined look, she added, “She will regret rejecting this chance to stay true to myself.”
Musk, seated in the front row, was visibly shaken, his usual quick-witted demeanor replaced by a rare moment of silence. The billionaire, who faced a similar rejection from Rory McIlroy at The Memorial Tournament earlier this week, appeared blindsided by Korda’s conviction, leaving the global media in a frenzy.
A Stand Echoing McIlroy’s Defiance
Korda’s rejection mirrors McIlroy’s bold stand at The Memorial Tournament, where he turned down a similar Tesla deal, citing his commitment to authenticity over commercialization. McIlroy’s decision had already sparked a media storm, with many praising his integrity after a disappointing PGA Championship finish. Now, Korda’s defiance has amplified the narrative, positioning both golf stars as champions of the sport’s purity in the face of corporate influence.
The 26-year-old American, who’s been open about her struggles at the U.S. Women’s Open in the past, emphasized her focus on the tournament. “I’ve had heartbreaking moments at this event,” Korda said, referencing her 2024 collapse at Lancaster with a score of 80. “This year, I’m here to compete, not to sell cars. My fans deserve my best, and I’m giving it to them.”
Global Media and Golf World React
The golf community is buzzing with reactions. On social media, fans erupted: “Nelly and Rory are legends for this!” one user posted on X, while another wrote, “Musk got shut down twice in a week—golf is fighting back!” ESPN analyst Nancy Lopez commented, “Korda’s stand is a powerful moment for women’s golf. She’s putting the game first.”
Musk, after a prolonged silence, responded on X: “Respect to Nelly for her choice. Tesla will keep pushing boundaries in sports. 🚗” However, sources close to Tesla suggest Musk was “deeply rattled” by the consecutive rejections, with some speculating he might pivot to other sports like Formula 1 for sponsorship opportunities.
Korda’s U.S. Women’s Open Campaign
Korda’s rejection adds an emotional layer to her U.S. Women’s Open performance, where she’s currently T2 at -5, just two strokes behind the leader after two rounds. Known for her struggles at this major—missing three cuts in the last five years—she’s showing resilience with strong tee-to-green play, though her putting has been a challenge. With two rounds remaining, this moment could either propel her to her first win of 2025 or distract her under the mounting pressure.
What’s Next?
Korda’s stand, following McIlroy’s, has ignited a broader conversation about the role of sponsorships in golf, with fans and players questioning the balance between commerce and tradition. As the U.S. Women’s Open heads into its final days, all eyes will be on whether Korda can channel this defiance into a victory—or if Musk’s ominous warning will haunt her career.
What do you think? Did Korda make the right call, or will Musk’s prediction come true? Share your thoughts below!