Nelly Korda, one of the brightest stars in professional golf, has long been admired for her talent, composure, and athleticism. As a Major champion and one of the top-ranked players in the world, Korda’s career has been marked by her success on the course. However, behind the polished image and consistent performance lies a more personal and vulnerable side of the golfer that she has only recently chosen to share.
In a candid interview, Korda revealed the mental health challenges she has faced throughout her career, shedding light on a topic that is often overlooked in the high-pressure world of professional sports. Her openness comes at a crucial time, as athletes across various disciplines are increasingly speaking out about the mental and emotional toll that the demands of their careers take on them.
A Hidden Battle
For years, Korda kept her struggles with mental health private, choosing to maintain the image of a confident, driven professional. Yet, beneath the surface, she found herself battling feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and pressure to constantly perform at an elite level. The pressure to succeed—combined with the intense public scrutiny and the demands of a high-profile career—became overwhelming at times.
“I think people assume that athletes have it all together, that we’re always at the top of our game mentally and physically, but that’s just not the case,” Korda explained. “There were moments when I felt really low and I didn’t know how to cope with it. I felt like I was carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders.”
Korda admitted that her struggles began early in her career but became especially pronounced during periods of injury or after disappointing performances. Despite her outward success, including her 2021 Women’s PGA Championship win and multiple top-10 finishes in major tournaments, she found herself grappling with feelings of inadequacy.
Seeking Help and Finding Strength
Korda’s breakthrough moment came when she realized that it was okay not to be okay. She began seeking help from mental health professionals and learned the importance of prioritizing her well-being over performance. In her interview, Korda emphasized the significance of mental health care, acknowledging that it is just as important as physical training for athletes.
“I’ve learned that taking care of your mind is just as critical as taking care of your body. It’s been a process, and it’s not always easy, but I feel so much better having opened up about it,” she said.
Her decision to talk openly about her struggles marks a shift in how mental health is viewed in the world of elite sports, where there is often a stigma surrounding vulnerability. Korda’s bravery is helping to break down those barriers and encouraging others—athletes or not—to seek help when they need it.
The Power of Support Systems
For Korda, the journey toward better mental health has been supported by a strong team of family, friends, and professionals. In particular, the support of her sister, Jessica, also a professional golfer, has been invaluable. “Having someone who understands the pressures and challenges I face in the sport has made all the difference,” Nelly said, reflecting on their close relationship.
Her openness has also sparked important conversations among other athletes. Fellow golfers and professionals in other sports have expressed admiration for her courage and have shared their own struggles, further de-stigmatizing mental health challenges within the sporting community.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Korda is focused on continuing her mental health journey alongside her physical training. She emphasized the importance of balance and self-compassion as she navigates her career, especially as the expectations placed on her remain high.
As she continues to compete at the highest level, Korda hopes to use her platform to inspire others to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed. “It’s okay to not be perfect, and it’s okay to ask for help,” she said. “The more we talk about it, the more we normalize it.”
Nelly Korda’s willingness to share her story is a powerful reminder that behind every athlete’s triumphs are personal battles that deserve attention and understanding. As the conversation around mental health in sports continues to grow, Korda stands as an advocate for both athletes and everyday individuals seeking to break free from the stigma and embrace the importance of mental well-being.
In doing so, she not only redefines what it means to be a champion but also opens the door for others to follow suit—putting mental health front and center in a world that often values strength over vulnerability.
