Nelly Korda Praises LeBron James’ Support for Women’s Sports: ‘Makes Such a Big Difference’

Nelly Korda says her rise to the top of women’s golf remains both meaningful and motivating as she prepares for the U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally, which runs June 4 through June 7 on NBC. In an exclusive conversation with Access Hollywood’s Kit Hoover, the world No. 1 reflected on her standout achievements, her growing influence in the sport, and the personal moments shaping her life away from the course.

Korda, 27, called being ranked No. 1 in the world an “amazing accomplishment” and said she hopes her success encourages the next generation of athletes, especially young girls who are watching women’s golf more closely than ever. The golfer said she sees her position as more than a personal milestone, describing it as an opportunity to inspire others and help expand the visibility of the women’s game.

She also praised LeBron James for his ongoing support of women’s sports, saying he regularly reaches out and has played a role in helping elevate attention around women’s golf. Korda said James’ audience has increasingly shifted toward following the sport, which she believes has helped strengthen engagement with fans. She described the NBA star as enthusiastic, kind, and genuinely invested in golf, adding that while the two have not yet played together, his support has been valuable and widely appreciated.

Beyond her career accomplishments, Korda offered a glimpse into her personal life, including details about her upcoming wedding to fiancé Casey Gunderson. The golfer, who has become one of the most recognizable names in the sport, spoke about balancing her professional ambitions with major life events off the course, underscoring the busy and exciting chapter she is currently navigating.

Korda also shared a personal connection to the number 13, explaining why it has become her favorite. She said her parents were born 13 days apart, and that her second major title also happened to be her 13th win. Those experiences, she said, have made the number especially meaningful to her over time. What began as a simple preference has turned into a symbol tied to family, career milestones, and a sense of identity.

As she heads into one of golf’s biggest tournaments, Korda remains focused on both performance and perspective. Her comments highlight a player at the peak of her game, aware of the responsibility that comes with success and eager to use her platform to support the sport’s growth. With the U.S. Women’s Open underway, Korda enters the event carrying not only the expectations of being the world’s top-ranked player, but also the momentum of an athlete determined to keep pushing the game forward.