Golf star Nelly Korda has just announced her withdrawal from the Riviera Maya Open 2025 for a sad reason and announces shocking resignation due to…
In a stunning turn of events, Nelly Korda, the world’s No. 1 female golfer, has withdrawn from the LPGA Tour’s inaugural Riviera Maya Open, set to take place from May 22-25, 2025, at El Camaleon Golf Course in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The announcement, made just days before the tournament, has sent shockwaves through the golfing world, not only due to the unexpected withdrawal but also because of Korda’s cryptic and emotionally charged nine-word statement: “I can’t accept this; I need time away.” This declaration has sparked intense speculation and concern among fans, players, and analysts, leaving the LPGA Tour grappling with the absence of its biggest star.
Korda’s decision to pull out of the Riviera Maya Open comes as a surprise, given her dominant 2024 season, where she clinched six victories in her first eight starts, earning her the prestigious LPGA Player of the Year award. Her absence from this high-profile event, which features a 144-player field, is a significant blow to the tournament’s debut. According to sources, Korda’s withdrawal is linked to a deeply personal and undisclosed reason, which she has chosen not to elaborate on publicly. The ambiguity of her statement has fueled discussions about her well-being, with many wondering if the pressures of her meteoric rise have taken a toll.
The Riviera Maya Open was set to feature stars like Jeeno Thitikul, Lilia Vu, Lydia Ko, and Yin Ruoning, but the spotlight has shifted with Nelly Korda’s unexpected absence. Korda’s exceptional 2024 season included impressive wins at the Ford Championship and The Annika driven by Gainbridge, which she has claimed twice. However, she hasn’t played since the Kroger Queen City Championship in September 2024, having pulled out of the Asian swing due to a minor neck injury. Although she recently resumed training, her last-minute withdrawal from the Riviera Maya Open hints that her challenges may go beyond physical recovery.
Korda’s brief statement—“I can’t accept this; I need time away”—has quickly become a talking point in the golfing world. The message suggests a deeper personal struggle, possibly tied to the immense pressure of being a leading figure in women’s golf. In contrast to her typically composed public image, this expression of vulnerability has sparked widespread support from fans and fellow players. Social media has been filled with messages encouraging her to focus on her mental and emotional well-being.
The LPGA Tour has faced ongoing challenges, including balancing global expansion with player welfare. Korda’s decision highlights the growing need to address athletes’ mental health amid intense schedules and public demands. Her choice may empower others to speak out about their own struggles, helping to foster a more understanding environment within professional golf.
Even without Korda, the Riviera Maya Open will showcase top talent, including Jeeno Thitikul, fresh off her win at the 2025 PIF Saudi Ladies International, and Lilia Vu, a two-time major winner. Still, Korda’s absence is deeply felt, as her influence and competitive edge are unmatched. Fans are left to speculate about her return and what her statement might signal for her future in the sport.
As the golf community reflects on this development, Korda’s legacy remains secure. Her impact on the LPGA, both through her performance and presence, has helped elevate the women’s game. While her withdrawal is surprising, it also shows great strength in choosing self-care. The tournament will go on, but her absence is a poignant reminder that even top athletes need time to recover and regroup. The world now waits for her next step, hoping for both clarity and a strong comeback.
