Nelly Korda secured her first-ever LPGA Player of the Year award on Sunday, a significant accomplishment that became mathematically certain as her closest rivals were no longer able to catch her in the points-based competition. Korda’s win is a testament to her consistent performance over the season, even as she was forced to sit out two tournaments during the LPGA’s Asia swing due to a minor neck injury that hampered her practice. Her lead in points remained unchallenged, and Japan’s Ayaka Furue, who had the only remaining chance to overtake her, needed to win every remaining tournament to do so. With Furue finishing tied for 10th in the Toto Japan Classic, Korda’s Player of the Year title was secured.
Korda’s remarkable season included six LPGA wins, one of which was a major championship. Her achievements are highlighted by an impressive five-tournament winning streak earlier in the season, which tied the LPGA’s all-time record. This dominant run underlined her status as one of the world’s most talented golfers and showcased her ability to perform at an elite level across different events.
Her win also signifies a notable trend for American golfers in the LPGA. This is the second consecutive year that an American has earned the LPGA’s top honor, with Lilia Vu having clinched the award in 2023 after winning two major titles. Prior to this, it had been nearly 30 years since American players claimed the LPGA Player of the Year award in successive years, with Betsy King achieving the honor in 1993, followed by Beth Daniel in 1994.
Currently the No. 1 player in the women’s world rankings, Korda still has two tournaments left in her 2024 season, including the Race to CME Globe, a season-long points competition that culminates with the CME Group Tour Championship from November 21 to 24. As she prepares to compete in these events, Korda has the opportunity to add yet another achievement to her impressive year and further solidify her position at the pinnacle of women’s golf.