After recently reaggravating a neck injury, Nelly Korda opened the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship with an even-par 72. The world’s top-ranked player experienced discomfort after a practice round three days prior, but she managed to keep her score competitive, finishing four strokes behind early leader Jeeno Thitikul, who shot 4-under 68.
Korda’s ongoing neck injury flared up again while warming up on Monday. He was on the championship Fields Ranch East course PGA Frisco. At the impact on the shot from deep rough, her neck “went into a complete spasm.” To my surprise, she was pain free hitting shots. She experiences pain when turning her head from side to side, making it hard for her to find a comfortable position to sleep in.
Only a handful of weeks ago, Korda missed two events on the LPGA’s Asia swing. Parker sustained a relatively minor neck injury toward the end of last year. Reflecting on her recovery process, she noted, “It’s better, yeah. Getting better every day, which is nice.”
Even in her opening round, Korda’s start of seven straight pars was a perfect example of her coolness under the heat of a major. At the par-4 seventh hole, she executed a notable 294-yard drive that landed just short of the green in a valley. Following this strong shot, she pitched to 3½ feet at the par-5 ninth hole and successfully converted for a birdie.
Korda faced challenges as well. Her tee shot at the par-3 eighth hole went over the green, leading to her first bogey of the day. She got the next one close to the pin and made par to save herself.
Reflecting on her approach at the ninth hole, Korda remarked, “It’s great to rebound with a birdie. Wasn’t sure where to drop. The grass was like pavement. It was so firm. It’s been walked on a lot.”
As the tournament progresses, Korda’s performance will be closely watched as she continues to navigate her recovery while competing against top players like Thitikul. Even with her recent misfortune, Korda is incredibly motivated to win this major championship.
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