In a world where power couples redefine romance, Olympic gold medalist Nelly Korda and NHL star Andreas Athanasiou just dropped the ultimate relationship goals bomb – and it’s got everyone swooning. As the world’s No. 1 female golfer tees off at the prestigious LOTTE Championship today, her boyfriend pulled off a gesture so sincere, it left Korda in tears of joy and social media in a frenzy. But her reply? Oh, it’s the kind of move that’s sparking envy from every guy scrolling through their feed right now.
It all unfolded on the eve of the $3 million showdown at Hoakalei Country Club. Athanasiou, the speedy Chicago Blackhawks forward who’s no stranger to high-stakes pressure, took to Instagram Stories with a private-yet-public shoutout that hit Korda like a perfect drive down the fairway. In a heartfelt video message – timestamped just after midnight Hawaii time – he poured out his pride: “Babe, as you step onto that first tee tomorrow, remember: You’re not just the fastest swing in golf; you’re my everything. Crush this LOTTE like you crush my heart every day. I’ve got your back, always. Love you more than a hat-trick. 🏒⛳❤️” The clip, featuring Athanasiou in his Blackhawks gear, grinning ear-to-ear against a snowy rink backdrop, was meant for Korda’s eyes only. But when she reshared it (with permission, of course), the internet exploded.
Fans and fellow athletes flooded the comments: “This is what true love looks like! 😍” gushed Serena Williams, while LeBron James dropped a simple “Goals.” Within hours, #NellyAndAndreas trended globally, racking up over 2 million views and sparking a wave of “relationship advice” threads on TikTok. For Korda, 27, who’s been navigating a winless 2025 after her record-shattering 2024, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. “I was practicing putts late, feeling the nerves,” she admitted in a pre-tournament presser today, eyes misty. “Then I see this… Andreas knows exactly how to lift me. He gets the grind – hockey, golf, it’s all pressure. I felt truly happy, unbreakable.”
But here’s where the envy kicks in: Korda’s response wasn’t a simple heart emoji or “Thanks babe.” No, the six-time LPGA winner went full rom-com, surprising Athanasiou with a custom-engraved golf club headcover shipped overnight to his Chicago hotel. Etched in gold: “To My MVP: Swing for the stars, I’ll catch ’em all. Forever yours, NK 🏆.” Accompanied by a steamy sunset selfie from the Hawaiian course – her in a sleek polo, wind-swept hair, blowing a kiss – it was posted with the caption: “Your words fueled my fire. Now go score one for us. Miss you already. 💋” Athanasiou’s repost? A single word: “Envy-level: Expert.” Dudes everywhere are side-eyeing their phones, muttering, “How do I level up to that?”
This isn’t just cute couple fluff; it’s a masterclass in partnership amid elite sports. Korda, fresh off a T5 at the Kroger Queen City Championship, enters LOTTE as the favorite, chasing her 16th LPGA win. Athanasiou, sidelined with a minor tweak but back for Blackhawks’ next tilt, proves love thrives off the ice and green. As one viral tweet summed it: “Nelly’s got the majors, Andreas has her heart – and we’re all just jealous spectators.”
Will this spark fuel Korda’s fire to victory? Early odds say yes, with bookies slashing her winning price to +300. One thing’s certain: In the game of love and links, this duo’s unbeatable. Who’s your power couple pick? Drop it below – and tag your boo for inspo!
