SAD NEWS: Nelly Korda SUDDENLY announces retirement after Hanwha International Crown! The golf star had to end her brilliant career due to a serious recurring neck injury. Doctors gave a HORRIFIC WARNING: she could lose the ability to move her neck permanently if she continues to play.
The golfing world is reeling from heartbreaking news as Nelly Korda, the reigning world number one and one of the brightest stars in women’s sports, has announced her sudden retirement following the Hanwha International Crown. The 26-year-old American, who only months ago was at the height of her powers, revealed in an emotional statement that she has been battling a severe recurring neck injury that has now forced her to step away from competitive golf for good.
The announcement came as a shock to fans, teammates, and fellow players alike. During the closing ceremony of the Hanwha International Crown, where Korda appeared visibly emotional, she confirmed that medical specialists had delivered a devastating warning: continuing to play could result in permanent damage to her neck and even the loss of movement altogether. “This is the hardest decision of my life,” Korda said through tears. “Golf has been my passion since I was a child, but my doctors have told me that if I continue to compete, I could lose the ability to move my neck permanently. I have to listen to them, even if it breaks my heart.”
According to reports, Korda first began experiencing neck problems late last season but continued to play through the pain while undergoing treatment and physiotherapy. Despite the discomfort, she managed to win multiple LPGA titles and maintained her dominance atop the world rankings. However, the injury worsened during her recent tournaments, leading to repeated spasms and stiffness that affected her swing and balance. “She’s been playing through unimaginable pain,” said a source close to her team. “Nelly is one of the toughest competitors out there, but this time her body simply couldn’t keep up.”
The official medical report released by her representatives detailed that the recurring cervical spine injury had reached a “critical stage,” and continuing to play high-intensity golf could lead to irreversible nerve damage. Her doctors strongly advised immediate retirement to prevent permanent loss of neck mobility. “She was warned that one wrong movement could cause lasting impairment,” the statement read. “This is not just about her golf career — it’s about her quality of life.”
Tributes from across the sporting world have poured in since the announcement. Fellow golfers, including Jin Young Ko, Lydia Ko, and Brooke Henderson, expressed sadness and admiration for Korda’s courage. The LPGA Tour released an official message praising her for her exceptional contribution to the sport, calling her “a once-in-a-generation talent whose legacy will inspire young athletes for decades.” Fans, too, have taken to social media to share their heartbreak, with many calling her retirement “the end of an era.”
Korda’s journey from a promising junior golfer to a global superstar has been nothing short of remarkable. She captured multiple major championships, an Olympic gold medal, and countless hearts with her grace, precision, and fierce competitive spirit. Even as she steps away from the game, her influence will remain deeply rooted in women’s golf.
In her closing message to fans, Korda wrote, “I don’t know what the future holds, but I will always be grateful for the love, the cheers, and the memories. Golf has given me everything, and now I have to give something back — my health.” Her departure leaves an irreplaceable void in the sport, but also a powerful reminder that even the greatest champions must sometimes surrender to the limits of the human body.
