Golf star Nelly Korda has sent shockwaves through the sports world with her unexpected withdrawal from the U.S. Women’s Open 2025, held at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin. The announcement, made just days into the prestigious tournament, has left fans and analysts reeling, as Korda cited health concerns as the primary reason for her departure. The world No. 1, known for her remarkable consistency and dominance on the LPGA Tour, was considered a top contender for the title, making her exit a significant blow to the event’s competitive landscape.

Korda’s decision comes after a challenging start to the tournament. Reports indicate she struggled in the opening rounds, posting a score of 1-over par, a performance that was uncharacteristic for the golfer who has consistently dazzled with her precision and composure. Sources close to the athlete revealed that she has been grappling with a recurring health issue, though specific details remain private out of respect for her personal recovery process. Korda shared a brief statement on social media, expressing her disappointment: “It breaks my heart to step away from the U.S. Women’s Open, but I need to prioritize my health right now. I’m grateful for the support and hope to be back stronger soon.”

The golf community has rallied around Korda, with fans flooding social platforms with messages of support, wishing her a speedy recovery. Her absence leaves a void in the tournament, which boasts a record-breaking $12 million purse, the largest in women’s golf history. Korda’s withdrawal shifts the spotlight to other contenders, such as A Lim Kim, who led after the first round, but the narrative around her exit continues to dominate discussions. Speculation about the nature of her health concerns has been rife, though her team has urged respect for her privacy, emphasizing that her focus is on recovery rather than competition at this moment.

This is not the first time Korda has faced health-related challenges. In previous seasons, she has been open about managing physical and mental demands of the sport, balancing intense training regimens with the pressures of being a global ambassador for golf. Her resilience has been a hallmark of her career, which includes multiple major championships and a gold medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Yet, this setback underscores the unpredictable nature of professional sports, where even the brightest stars must sometimes step back to prioritize well-being.

As the U.S. Women’s Open continues, the absence of Korda serves as a reminder of the human element in athletics. Fans remain hopeful that she will return to the fairways soon, bringing her signature flair and competitive spirit. For now, the golf world watches and waits, sending collective support to one of its brightest talents as she navigates this challenging chapter.