Entering 2025, the ever-dominant Nelly Korda is facing a stiff competition on the LPGA Tour, particularly from a player who is yet to clinch a major title. At the tender age of 26, Korda has already accomplished more in 2024 than many of her peers will achieve in their entire careers. Her second major triumph came at the Chevron Championship, a highlight in a remarkable streak that saw her claim six victories in just seven starts on the LPGA Tour.
Despite the impressive performance, Korda’s dominance seemed to wane mid-season, as she failed to make the cut at two out of five major championships. However, she silenced the skeptics by clinching victory at The ANNIKA in November, a masterstroke that put a firm stamp on her remarkable year.
Interestingly, while Lydia Ko and Jeeno Thitikul appeared to be narrowing the gap on the world number one, they’re not the only threats Korda needs to be aware of in the 2025 season. Ko’s career continues to ascend, marked by her victories at The Open and the Olympic gold medal. Simultaneously, Thitikul demonstrated tremendous skill to edge out Angel Yin and secure the CME Group Tour Championship.
As the year unfolds, A Lim Kim has emerged as an early frontrunner, courtesy of her triumph at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in January. Similarly, Rio Takeda has had a blistering start to her debut year on the tour.
Veteran golf journalist Ron Sirak, in his recent commentary on the Golf Channel, expects Korda to continue her winning streak in 2025, albeit with a caveat. He pointed out that Korda’s health will be a significant determinant. Despite a history of injury and illness, her skill and desire remain undiminished. Sirak anticipates Korda will add more majors to her trophy cabinet and have another multi-win season, provided her health remains stable.
Sirak also noted the remarkable trend of players under 30 winning the first five tournaments of the year. He singled out Angel Yin and Yealimi Noh as potential threats to Korda. Sirak also nominated Rio Takeda as the early favorite for rookie of the year, emphasizing her impressive track record of eight victories on the JLPGA. He also identified Jeeno Thitikul as a potential dark horse contender for player of the year honors.
Thitikul, however, has one hurdle she needs to overcome: she has yet to win a major title. Despite securing seven top 10 finishes in the five biggest events, a top-three finish has eluded her. Yet, her raw talent is undeniable. Brandel Chamblee pointed out that Thitikul outperformed Korda in various categories during the 2024 season, the same year known for Korda’s exceptional first-half performance.
The tour’s depth is truly astounding, with players like Yealimi Noh stepping up their game. After a disappointing major championship record between 2022 and 2024, Noh turned things around with a victory at the Founders Cup last month. Lilia Vu, too, has shown significant growth last season after recovering from an injury.
The 2025 season promises to be an exciting year for women’s golf. While Korda’s repeat of her 2024 dominance would be phenomenal, there are plenty of talent waiting in the wings, ready to make this year their own.
