The Hidden Corner Behind Nelly Korda’s Refusal of $10 Million: ‘Family Is Everything, Career Is Just a Small Part’
Nelly Korda, the world’s top-ranked female golfer, recently made headlines by turning down a staggering $10 million offer from tech mogul Elon Musk. The decision, which shocked the sports and business worlds, has sparked widespread curiosity about what drives a 26-year-old athlete at the peak of her career to reject such a life-changing sum. Korda’s bold statement—“Money can’t buy me!”—hints at a deeper story, one rooted in her values, family ties, and a perspective that transcends the pursuit of wealth.
Born on July 28, 1998, in Bradenton, Florida, Nelly Korda hails from a family of elite athletes. Her father, Petr Korda, a former world No. 2 tennis player and 1998 Australian Open champion, and her mother, Regina Rajchrtová, a professional tennis player who reached No. 26 in the world, instilled a competitive spirit in Nelly and her siblings. Her older sister, Jessica, is also a professional golfer, while her younger brother, Sebastian, is carving out a career in professional tennis. Growing up in this athletic dynasty, Nelly was exposed to the demands of high-level sports from a young age, but she was also taught that family and personal integrity come first.
Korda’s refusal of the $10 million offer, reportedly tied to a promotional deal with one of Musk’s ventures, was not a snap decision. Sources close to the golfer suggest that the offer came with expectations that clashed with her principles. While details of the deal remain private, it’s clear that Korda prioritized her values over financial gain. “Family is everything,” she reportedly told those close to her, emphasizing that her career, while important, is “just a small part” of who she is. This perspective sets her apart in a world where athletes often chase lucrative endorsements to secure their financial future.
Korda’s journey to becoming the World No. 1 golfer has been remarkable. Since turning professional in 2016, she has amassed 15 LPGA Tour victories, including two major championships—the 2021 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and the 2024 Chevron Championship—and a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her career earnings exceed $12.5 million, and with endorsements from brands like Nike, Titleist, and Richard Mille, her net worth is estimated at $10 million to $12.5 million as of 2025. Yet, despite her financial success, Korda remains grounded, often crediting her family for keeping her balanced.
The decision to reject Musk’s offer reflects Korda’s commitment to authenticity. She has spoken publicly about the importance of staying true to herself, whether on the golf course or in her personal life. Her relationship with her family, particularly her siblings, provides a support system that she values above all else. “We push each other to be better, but we also remind each other what really matters,” she said in a recent interview. This bond has been a constant in her life, from her early days practicing golf at age six to her current status as a global sports icon.
Korda’s story is a reminder that success is not always measured in dollars. By choosing family and integrity over a massive payday, she has shown that her priorities lie beyond the fairways. As she continues to compete at the highest level, Nelly Korda’s legacy will be defined not just by her victories, but by the values that guide her choices.
