Fresh off her dominant 2024 LPGA season, world #1 Nelly Korda made headlines this week with an unexpected announcement—she’ll be featured in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Korda’s Stepping Outside Her ‘Comfort Zone’ Korda revealed the news during a press conference ahead of the Annika Driven by Gainbridge event, where she’s making her return to competition after a two-month injury layoff. “It was so cool,” the 26-year-old said of the swimsuit shoot. “We received the call to participate about two months ago.”
Korda admitted she was nervous at first, saying, “I’m not used to doing anything like that; it’s so outside my comfort zone.” However, she praised the SI team, including editor-in-chief MJ Day, for making her feel at ease. “The whole crew was so amazing. By the end of the day I was having so much fun with them.”
The 14-time LPGA Tour winner saw the opportunity as a chance to try something new. “I think that’s what’s great about these opportunities: you do get to step outside your comfort zone and do something different,” Korda explained. “I was just really excited for the opportunity to do this.”
Korda overcomes injury to return to action. Korda’s appearance in the SI Swimsuit Issue came during an unexpected two-month break from competition. Due to a neck injury during practice, the 2-time major champion withdrew from the Asian swing of the LPGA schedule.
“Sometimes your body gives you signs, right?” Korda said. “It’s smart. I need to listen to it a little bit more.” She admitted to “rushing” her rehab to be ready for this week’s event, which is close to where she grew up.
In her return, Korda opened with a 4-under 66, sitting two shots off the lead. “I didn’t really know what to expect,” she said. “I was definitely a little nervous on the first couple holes; I just did not know what to expect from my game because I have not been playing too much.”
Korda is aiming to close out the dominant season. Despite the injury layoff, Korda is having a career year on the LPGA Tour. She has already won six times in 2024, including back-to-back titles on three separate occasions. The 2024 Rolex Player of the Year is aiming to add another trophy to her collection this week.
Korda stated, “My primary objective is to lift the trophy on Sunday.” With her neck no longer causing issues, she’s hopeful of capping her season with a win at the Pelican Golf Club.
Korda’s appearance in the SI Swimsuit Issue continues her ascent into mainstream stardom. Earlier this year, she made her red carpet debut at the Met Gala in New York. The LPGA’s new “it girl” seems to be embracing opportunities beyond the fairways.
As the 2024 season winds down, Korda is looking to add one more trophy to her already impressive collection. With her health back on track and a newfound modeling gig under her belt, the 26-year-old appears primed for an exciting finish to a remarkable year.