Nelly Korda, the world’s No. 1 women’s golfer, is known not just for her incredible skill on the course but also for her ventures off it. One such venture was her highly publicized swimsuit shoot, which caused a stir when it was first announced. In a recent interview, Korda opened up about how it was her mother, Regina Korda, who encouraged her to take the plunge.
While many would assume that a decision like this would be a personal one, Korda revealed that her mother was the one who pushed her to embrace the opportunity. “It was actually my mom who suggested I do the shoot,” Korda said. “At first, I was hesitant—after all, I’m known for my golf, not for modeling. But she told me it would be a fun way to step outside my comfort zone and show a different side of myself.”
The shoot was part of the annual Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, a prestigious feature that has showcased a diverse range of athletes, models, and celebrities. For Korda, stepping in front of the camera in a swimsuit was a significant departure from her usual golf attire. But with her mom’s support, Korda embraced the experience and turned it into a powerful moment of self-expression.
“Honestly, I didn’t expect the kind of positive feedback I received,” Korda admitted. “It helped me realize that we all have multiple sides to who we are. I’m proud of the golfer I am, but I also love expressing other parts of my personality and confidence. My mom’s push helped me see that.”
Regina Korda, a former tennis player herself, has long been a guiding force in her daughter’s career, both on and off the course. The mother-daughter bond is clear, and it’s evident that Nelly’s success extends beyond golf, with her mom being a key part of the journey.
As for the swimsuit shoot, Korda reflected on how it challenged her perception of herself and ultimately reinforced her belief in stepping outside of her comfort zone. “It’s a reminder that you can be anything you want to be—on or off the course.”
With her mother’s encouragement, Korda not only added another achievement to her growing list but also showed the world that confidence, in all forms, is a key to success. Whether she’s on the golf course or in front of the camera, Nelly Korda is proving time and again that she’s more than just a golfer—she’s a force to be reckoned with.
