As we journey into 2025, the world of golf is abuzz with whispers of Lydia Ko’s impressive resurgence. After a forgettable 2023 season and a winless streak in major championships since 2016, many were skeptical about Ko’s future in the sport. However, the New Zealand-born professional golfer has silenced her critics with a remarkable comeback in 2024, and her winning streak continues into 2025.
Ko’s triumph in the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in early 2024 marked the start of her remarkable revival. The victory was a precursor to a sensational second half of the year that saw her clinch the AIG Women’s Open at St. Andrews and make history at the Paris Olympics by becoming the first golfer to win all three medals since golf’s reintroduction to the Games.
The golfing fraternity was abuzz with speculations on whether Ko could surpass Nelly Korda for the Player of the Year title. Although Korda, the world number one, won The ANNIKA, Ko has already made a strong start in 2025.
The golfing world was left in awe when Ko clinched the HSBC Women’s World Championship by a margin of four shots. This was the largest victory margin in the event’s history since Lorena Ochoa’s 11-shot win at the inaugural tournament in 2008. After this victory, Ko’s tally of wins on the LPGA Tour rose to 23.
Commenting on Ko’s astonishing achievements, golf analyst Dan Rapaport confessed his disbelief on his show, Dan on Golf. He expressed his astonishment at Ko’s unprecedented success before her 28th birthday, comparing it to the wins of golfing greats like Justin Thomas, Dustin Johnson, Rory McIlroy, and Jordan Spieth.
Ko has started 2025 on a strong note, finishing in the top 10 in two out of her three starts. Her performance in 2024, where she secured top 10 finishes in eight out of 20 starts on the LPGA Tour, also speaks volumes about her consistency. While Nelly Korda’s performance can be erratic, Ko has found a rhythm that could potentially make her the dominant force in women’s golf this year.
Alongside Thailand’s rising star Jeeno Thitikul, Ko is tipped to be one of the most successful players this season. As we look ahead, the question on everyone’s mind is, who will emerge as the most dominant force in women’s golf in the coming months? And with Ko’s recent performances, many are betting on her to lead the pack.
