SHOCKING Tiger Woods has spoken out to defend Nelly Korda after the wave of criticism, threats and insults she has faced online for her recent performances. “What is happening to Korda is a crime against golf. How can people be so cruel and abandon a young girl, only 27 years old, who is carrying the weight of America on her shoulders?” Hearing Woods’ words, Korda burst into tears, and her response made him prouder than ever.
The golf world was rocked this week when Tiger Woods, the sport’s greatest icon, delivered an impassioned defense of LPGA star Nelly Korda during a press conference ahead of the 2025 Presidents Cup. Korda, the world’s No. 1 female golfer, has faced a relentless barrage of online criticism, threats, and insults following a string of uncharacteristic struggles, including a missed cut at the Women’s PGA Championship and a faltering final round at the Solheim Cup. The 27-year-old American, once hailed as golf’s golden girl, has been under immense pressure as the face of women’s golf, and the vitriol reached a breaking point, prompting Woods to step in.
“What is happening to Korda is a crime against golf,” Woods declared, his voice heavy with emotion. “How can people be so cruel and abandon a young girl, only 27 years old, who is carrying the weight of America on her shoulders? She’s given everything to this sport—six wins in one season, an Olympic gold—and yet fans tear her down for a few bad rounds. It’s disgusting.” Woods’ words, raw and unfiltered, referenced Korda’s historic 2024 season, where she dominated the LPGA Tour, only to face a social media storm accusing her of “choking” under pressure. Posts on X and Instagram escalated from critiques to personal attacks, with some users sending threatening messages that left Korda shaken.
The moment took a poignant turn when Korda, watching the press conference from home, broke down in tears. She later responded via a heartfelt Instagram post: “Hearing Tiger stand up for me means more than I can say. I’ve been struggling, not just with my game but with the hate. I’m human, I’m trying my best, and I’ll keep fighting to make golf proud.” Her words struck a chord with Woods, who texted her privately, saying, “You’re tougher than I ever was at 27. Keep going.” Sources close to the 15-time major champion say Korda’s resilience made him prouder than ever.
The golf community rallied behind Woods’ call for compassion. Players like Rory McIlroy and Lexi Thompson condemned the online abuse, with McIlroy tweeting, “Nelly’s a champion. Fans need to back her, not break her.” The LPGA issued a statement promising to work with platforms to curb harassment, while the PGA Tour praised Woods for shining a light on mental health in sports. #StandWithNelly trended globally, with fans sharing clips of Korda’s tearful response alongside her career highlights, from her 2021 Women’s PGA win to her Olympic triumph.
This saga has sparked a broader conversation about the toll of fame in golf, especially for young stars like Korda, who carries the expectations of a nation. Woods, no stranger to scrutiny, reminded the world of her potential: “She’s got more majors in her future. Let’s lift her up.” As Korda prepares for the upcoming Chevron Championship, her emotional response and Woods’ unwavering support have shifted the narrative. The golf world now watches not just for her swing, but for her strength—a young woman proving she’s more than the hate, with a legend in her corner.
