Korda’s Impressive Performance Sets Her Up for First Win Since 2022 in LPGA Drive On Championship

As the LPGA Drive On Championship in Bradenton, Fla., heads into the final round, local favorite Nelly Korda finds herself in the driver’s seat with a four-shot lead. This week presents a golden opportunity for Korda, currently ranked World No. 4, to secure her ninth career LPGA victory.

With impressive rounds of 65, 67, and 68, Korda sits comfortably at 14 under par after 54 holes. A win on Sunday would not only add another accolade to her already illustrious career but also mark her first victory in 14 months. Despite a slightly shaky start on the front nine during Saturday’s round, where she posted consecutive bogeys, Korda quickly turned her game around. She ended her day on a high note, carding two birdies and an eagle in her final six holes to finish with a three-under round.

“Yeah, just a confidence boost knowing I can climb up the leaderboard and contend and stay in contention,” Korda remarked after her impressive performance. “Definitely didn’t have the great start today. I think I was one back after nine holes, and then kind of turned it around. But any single time I get to be in contention, I learn more about myself and how to handle the situations more. Hopefully, I can put together a good round for the hometown.”

By hometown, Korda is referring to Bradenton, Florida, where she has been enjoying widespread support from friends, family, and locals at the Bradenton Country Club. Born in a hospital nearby, Korda has relished the opportunity to reconnect with her roots and bask in the overwhelming support.

“I was born just in the hospital just down the road from here,” Korda shared. “It’s been nice seeing friends and family come out, everyone asking for tickets, feeling the support, it’s been really nice. I grew up at IMG, too, so a lot of the employees wanted to come out and watch, family friends, doctors, whatever. It’s been amazing honestly. I’m actually kind of taken back with how much support I’ve been getting this week. Being in Florida, I always get a lot of support, but hometown, it’s crazy.”

While Korda holds a comfortable lead entering the final round, she won’t have an easy path to victory. Several notable names are hot on her heels, including Megan Khang (-9), Lydia Ko (-9), Sei Young Kim (-8), and Lexi Thompson (-7). Korda will play alongside Khang and Ayaka Furue in the final grouping, beginning their round at 11:56 a.m. ET. Those eager to witness the final-round action can tune in to Golf Channel at 2 p.m. ET.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Who is the current leader in the LPGA Drive On Championship?

The current leader heading into the final round of the LPGA Drive On Championship is Nelly Korda, with a four-shot lead.

How many career victories does Nelly Korda have?

Nelly Korda has accumulated eight LPGA victories so far in her career. A win in this championship would mark her ninth.

When was Nelly Korda’s last victory?

Nelly Korda’s last victory took place 14 months ago. Since then, she has been eager to return to the winner’s circle.

Where is the LPGA Drive On Championship being held?

The LPGA Drive On Championship is taking place at the Bradenton Country Club in Bradenton, Florida.