THE WOODLANDS, TX – In a shocking turn of events, world No. 1 golfer Nelly Korda has withdrawn from the 2025 Chevron Championship, the LPGA Tour’s first Major of the season, scheduled for April 24-27 at The Club at Carlton Woods. The announcement, made just days before the tournament, has left fans heartbroken, as Korda cited a deeply personal and emotional reason for her decision, casting a shadow over the event where she triumphed in 2024.

Korda, who etched her name in history last year by winning the Chevron Championship—her second Major and part of a record-tying five consecutive LPGA victories—shared the news in a heartfelt statement on social media. “It breaks my heart to say this, but I’ve decided to withdraw from the Chevron Championship,” Korda wrote. “After a difficult few months, I’m dealing with the loss of someone very close to me. I need to step away to process this grief and be with my family. Golf is my passion, but right now, I need to prioritize healing.”

While Korda did not disclose specific details about the loss, sources close to the 26-year-old golfer indicate that the past weeks have been emotionally taxing, impacting her ability to prepare for the grueling demands of a Major. Her team emphasized that the decision was made to protect her mental and emotional well-being, underscoring the toll that personal tragedy can take even on the sport’s brightest stars.

The news has sent shockwaves through the golfing community, with fans expressing their devastation on platforms like X. “Nelly’s my hero, and this breaks my heart,” one fan posted. “She’s given us so much joy, and now she’s hurting. Sending all my love.” Another wrote, “The Chevron won’t be the same without Nelly. Praying for her and her family.” Korda’s absence is particularly poignant given her historic 2024 performance, where she matched Nancy Lopez (1978) and Annika Sörenstam (2004-05) with five straight wins, cementing her status as a generational talent.

Korda’s withdrawal marks the second time in less than a year that she’s had to step back from competition. In October 2024, she pulled out of two LPGA events in Asia due to a minor neck injury sustained during practice. However, this latest announcement carries a far heavier weight, as Korda has rarely spoken publicly about personal struggles, preferring to let her clubs do the talking. Her 2024 Chevron victory, where she outlasted Maja Stark by two strokes and celebrated with a cannonball into the lake, remains a highlight for fans who hoped to see her defend her title.

Fellow players have rallied around Korda, offering support during this difficult time. Lydia Ko, the 2024 Olympic gold medalist and Chevron champion in 2016, said, “Nelly’s strength on and off the course is inspiring. We’re all here for her, and I know she’ll come back even stronger when she’s ready.” Brooke Henderson, who tied for third at last year’s Chevron, added, “The game misses Nelly, but family comes first. Sending her all my love.”

The Chevron Championship will proceed with a strong field, including stars like Lilia Vu, Jin Young Ko, and rising talent Lauren Coughlin, but Korda’s absence leaves a void. The tournament, known for its tradition of winners leaping into the lake by the 18th green, will feel bittersweet without the defending champion, whose infectious smile and clutch performances have defined recent editions.

Korda’s team has not announced when she plans to return to competition, though she hinted at taking things “one day at a time.” For now, the golf world waits with bated breath, respecting her need for space while mourning the absence of its biggest star. As one fan poignantly posted, “Nelly, you’ve given us everything. Now take all the time you need. We’ll be here when you’re back.”