“You have to be there”: When Nelly Korda recalled playing at the world’s most exclusive golf course

Nelly Korda, one of golf’s most celebrated female athletes, had the rare opportunity to play at Augusta National Golf Club, a venue renowned for hosting the iconic Masters Tournament. While Augusta is typically off-limits for female golfers due to its association with the male-dominated Masters, Korda’s experience in 2023 allowed her to witness the course’s unparalleled charm.

Reflecting on her time there, she highlighted the unique challenges posed by the course’s dramatic undulations and strategic demands. “There is so much undulation in that golf course. It’s not straightforward,” Korda explained. “You have to play with your shots. There is so much creativity that you actually need to have out there.

” For Korda, experiencing the course firsthand gave her a newfound appreciation for the mastery required to compete at Augusta. She added, “It’s Augusta. It just explains itself right there. So prestigious to even set foot on the golf course.”

Korda’s insights extend beyond her admiration for Augusta, as she also praised her partners in the Grant Thornton Invitational. Originally paired with Tony Finau, who later withdrew due to injury, Korda teamed up with Daniel Berger for the event. Berger’s precise gameplay left a lasting impression on Korda, who described him as a “finesse player” with excellent iron play and putting skills. “He hit so many fairways, really great iron play, and on top of that, he rolls it really well,” she said, expressing her admiration for his artistic approach to the game.

Together, the duo showcased strong teamwork, finishing 13th with a combined score of -16 over four rounds. Whether at Augusta or the Grant Thornton Invitational, Korda continues to demonstrate her respect for the sport and its players while solidifying her status as one of golf’s most dynamic competitors