What Did Nelly Korda’s Parents Give Up for Her Success? The Truth Will Surprise You
Behind every great athlete lies a story of dedication—not only from the player but also from the family who supports their dreams. For world-renowned golfer Nelly Korda, that story begins with her parents, Petr Korda and Regina Rajchrtová, whose extraordinary sacrifices paved the way for her success.
Both Petr, a former Australian Open tennis champion, and Regina, an Olympic tennis player for Czechoslovakia, knew firsthand the demands of elite sports. But when it came to their children—especially Nelly—they didn’t pressure them into tennis. Instead, they encouraged freedom to explore, and eventually, Nelly found her passion in golf—a decision that would forever change her life.
What stands out most is the immense commitment the Korda family made. They consciously stepped away from the spotlight to focus fully on nurturing their children’s athletic journeys. This meant relocating to the U.S., adjusting family schedules around grueling practice sessions, and even homeschooling at times to accommodate constant travel for tournaments.
Financially, the early years were tough. Junior golf is expensive—the gear, coaching, travel, and entry fees quickly add up. Yet, Petr and Regina invested every resource they could spare into giving Nelly the best opportunities, often sacrificing personal comforts and long-term stability. Every dollar was a step toward her future.
Emotionally, their sacrifices were just as profound. Regina, drawing on her own experience with international competition, frequently traveled alongside Nelly, offering crucial emotional support and stability. Petr wore many hats—mentor, fitness coach, and motivator—waking early for training and helping to forge mental toughness. Their devotion went beyond logistics; it was about building resilience, discipline, and confidence.
Perhaps the greatest sacrifice was time. While many parents enjoy quiet family moments, the Kordas spent countless hours on the road—between airports, hotel rooms, and golf courses. Their family bond was shaped by these shared challenges, creating not only a champion athlete but also a grounded, focused young woman.
Today, as Nelly Korda celebrates multiple LPGA victories and Olympic gold, she does so on the foundation laid by her parents’ unwavering support. Their quiet strength, relentless dedication, and belief in her potential were the true driving forces behind her rise—proof that behind every success story lies an unbelievable journey of sacrifice.
