Nelly Korda, the world’s top-ranked women’s golfer, dominated the LPGA Tour in early 2024, making her the player to beat. Her extraordinary run included five consecutive victories from January to April, part of an impressive stretch where she won six out of seven tournaments. However, as she heads into this week’s Women’s British Open at St. Andrews, Korda’s unbeatable form has faltered, raising questions about her ability to bounce back.

Recent Struggles on the Course

Korda’s form has noticeably dipped in recent months, marked by a surprising series of missed cuts—three in a row, including two major championships. This is the first time in her career that she has faced such a streak, and her recent performances at the Evian Championship and the Paris Olympics saw her finish outside the top 20. Despite these setbacks, Korda remains optimistic about her game as she prepares for the challenges at St. Andrews, a course known for its difficult conditions and historical significance.

Adapting to St. Andrews

As Korda prepares for the British Open, she emphasizes the importance of staying mentally grounded. “You’re going to go up, you’re going to go down,” Korda remarked, highlighting the unpredictable nature of golf. She sees her recent struggles as learning opportunities and is determined to approach the game with a positive mindset. The Old Course at St. Andrews, known for its challenging layout and unpredictable weather, will test Korda’s resilience, especially with rain and strong winds forecasted for the first two days.

Weather as a Factor

The weather at St. Andrews will be a significant factor in this year’s Women’s British Open, with some players potentially struggling to adapt. Stacy Lewis, a past champion at St. Andrews and the current U.S. Solheim Cup captain, noted that many players might be mentally unprepared for the tough conditions. Korda, however, remains focused on “staying present” and embracing the creativity required to navigate the Old Course’s unique challenges.

The Path Forward for Korda

As Korda seeks to regain her dominant form, she is mindful of not getting ahead of herself. Her only top-10 finish at the British Open came in 2019, and she acknowledges the need to adjust her game to the course’s demands. With two major titles already under her belt, including the Chevron Championship in April, Korda aims to use her experience and mental fortitude to reclaim her place at the top of women’s golf. 

The Women’s British Open at St. Andrews presents a pivotal moment in Korda’s career, offering her a chance to overcome recent struggles and reestablish her dominance in the sport.