The LPGA has spoken for the FIRST time about Nelly Korda’s SUDDEN withdrawal from the International Crown. The golf queen’s unexpected decision has shocked the sports world. Now, the LPGA has released an official statement on the reason for the world’s top golfer’s absence.
The golf world was left stunned earlier this week when Nelly Korda, the world’s number one player and reigning face of the LPGA Tour, abruptly announced her withdrawal from the upcoming International Crown tournament. Her absence from one of the most prestigious team events in women’s golf immediately set off waves of speculation — was it injury, fatigue, or something more serious behind the decision? After days of silence, the LPGA has now spoken publicly for the first time, releasing an official statement clarifying the reasons behind Korda’s sudden withdrawal.
According to the LPGA’s announcement, Korda’s decision was “mutually agreed upon” after discussions between the player, her management team, and LPGA medical advisors. The statement explained that the 26-year-old American star has been experiencing “severe physical exhaustion” following an intense stretch of competition that included five consecutive tournament appearances, multiple long-haul flights, and extensive sponsor obligations. “After medical consultation, it was determined that rest and recovery were essential for Nelly’s long-term health and continued success,” the LPGA’s statement read. “Her commitment to representing her country and the LPGA remains unquestioned, but her well-being must always come first.”
The announcement has helped to calm some of the speculation that had erupted across social media in recent days. Many fans had feared the worst — that Korda might have suffered a recurrence of the health issues that sidelined her in 2022, when she was forced to take several months off after being diagnosed with a blood clot in her arm. The LPGA made no reference to any new medical condition, emphasizing instead that her withdrawal was purely precautionary.
Despite the clarification, the shock of Korda’s decision continues to ripple through the golf community. She had been expected to lead Team USA in the International Crown, an event that celebrates national pride and team competition in a sport often dominated by individual play. Her presence was seen as vital to America’s chances, especially given her recent run of dominant form, which included three LPGA titles earlier in the season. “It’s disappointing not to have Nelly with us,” said Team USA captain Stacy Lewis. “But her health is the top priority. We all know how much she loves representing her country, and we’ll be playing for her this week.”
Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, encouraging Korda to take all the time she needs. “She’s given us incredible moments this season,” one fan wrote. “We’d rather see her healthy for the long run than pushing through exhaustion.”
Korda herself has not made a lengthy statement, but she did post a short message on her Instagram story shortly after the LPGA announcement: “I’m so sad to miss out, but I need to listen to my body. I’ll be cheering for Team USA from home. Thank you for all the love and understanding.”
As one of the sport’s biggest global stars, Nelly Korda’s every move attracts attention, but her withdrawal also underscores a growing conversation in professional sports about burnout and the physical toll of constant competition. The LPGA’s public support for its top player has been widely praised, showing that even the brightest stars sometimes need to step back to protect their long-term health and happiness.
