Nelly Korda inspired by Scottie Scheffler in bid for comeback win at Olympics

As the Olympic golf competition advanced at Le Golf National, Nelly Korda, the world No. 1 and reigning women’s gold medalist, demonstrated her remarkable skill and consistency. By Thursday’s second round, Korda was 6 under par through 15 holes, placing her within striking distance of the lead and firmly in contention for another Olympic gold.

However, what seemed like a solid round took a dramatic turn on the par-3 16th hole. Facing a critical shot, Korda chose a “chippy” 9-iron, believing it to be the most appropriate club for the situation. Unfortunately, the shot did not go as planned. Korda described the ball as coming off “a little heely,” causing it to land short of the green and roll into a water hazard.

Her troubles didn’t stop there. Her third shot, taken from the drop zone, compounded her difficulties. The ball ended up in a challenging plugged lie in a bunker, making recovery even harder. Korda’s attempt to escape the bunker was overly aggressive, sending the ball over the green. This series of missteps culminated in a quadruple-bogey 7, a significant setback in what had otherwise been an impressive performance.

Reflecting on the round, Korda acknowledged the impact of the 16th hole. “I played 16 holes of really, really solid golf,” she said. “I was 6 under at that point and just hit my shot a little out right and a little heely. I was a little hesitant, being in between clubs.” She also noted the challenges she faced with her recovery shots, particularly the firm conditions in the bunkers. “I just hit a really poor wedge shot [from the drop zone], and I was plugged in the bunker. Those bunkers are really firm, and when I tried to be a little aggressive with it, my ball just shot to the back of the green. It was just a series of unfortunate events.”

The difficulties didn’t end on the 16th hole. Korda’s struggles continued on the par-4 17th, where she three-putted for a bogey. She finished the round with a 2-under 70, dropping her to a tie for 12th place, six shots behind the leader.

Despite the setback, Korda remained positive and determined. She drew inspiration from Scottie Scheffler’s recent resilience in the men’s Olympic golf competition. Scheffler, the world No. 1 in the men’s game, had also faced challenges during his round but made a remarkable comeback. “I still have 36 more holes, and anything can happen,” Korda said. “I’m trying to see the positive in this. You know, Scottie came back, shot 9 under, and he won [the gold medal].”

Korda’s resolve to stay focused and positive underscores her competitive spirit and belief in a possible comeback. With two rounds remaining, she is determined to use her experience and skills to overcome the challenges ahead and contend for a medal. As the Olympic golf tournament continues, Korda’s perseverance may yet lead to a thrilling conclusion in her quest for another gold medal.