BREAKING: World No.1 Golfer Nelly Korda Refuses to Take Part in Golf’s “Pride Night” — Says the Game Should Stay Out of Politics

The world of golf has been rocked by controversy after World No.1 golfer Nelly Korda announced that she will not participate in Golf’s upcoming “Pride Night” event, citing her belief that the sport should remain focused on athletic performance rather than political or social issues.

The 26-year-old American star, who has dominated women’s golf in recent seasons, made the announcement in a calm but firm statement released shortly before the event was set to take place. Her comments, though measured, have quickly ignited a heated debate across the sports community and social media, dividing fans, players, and commentators.

“This sport should focus solely on performance on the course, not on political issues or social movements,” Korda said. “I have great respect for everyone, but I believe that golf — like all sports — should remain a place where people come together through competition, not division.”

Within minutes, the statement went viral, drawing praise from some who support her stance on neutrality in sports and criticism from others who see her decision as a missed opportunity for inclusivity and representation.

A Rising Star Who Became Golf’s Global Face

Nelly Korda’s words carry immense weight not only because of her ranking but also because of her reputation as one of golf’s most respected figures.

The Florida-born athlete, daughter of former Czech tennis star Petr Korda, has been the face of women’s golf since clinching her first major victory at the 2021 Women’s PGA Championship, and later winning an Olympic gold medal for Team USA in Tokyo. Her talent, poise, and professionalism have made her a role model for young athletes worldwide.

Her decision to abstain from a high-profile event like “Pride Night,” however, marks one of the few times she has found herself at the center of public controversy.

What Is “Pride Night” — and Why It Matters

The “Pride Night” initiative, organized by the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) in partnership with several sponsors, was intended as a celebration of inclusivity and diversity within the sport. The event aimed to recognize LGBTQ+ athletes and fans, promoting the message that “golf is for everyone.”

While participation was voluntary, most top-ranked players — including Lexi Thompson, Brooke Henderson, and Lydia Ko — had confirmed their attendance, making Korda’s withdrawal particularly notable.

In a statement, an LPGA spokesperson emphasized that the event was “not about politics, but about unity and acceptance.”

“Our goal is to make golf a welcoming space for all people,” the LPGA said. “We respect every player’s decision regarding participation, but we remain committed to celebrating diversity within our sport.”

Despite the LPGA’s diplomatic tone, the public response to Korda’s refusal has been far from quiet.

Supporters Applaud Her for “Standing for Principles”

A large number of fans and commentators have rallied behind Korda, defending her right to stay out of social and political debates.

Sports columnist Mark Daniels wrote in Golf Digest:

“Korda is not rejecting anyone — she’s rejecting the idea that sports should become a battlefield for ideology. In a time when athletes are pressured to take sides, her choice to remain neutral is an act of courage.”

Many on social media echoed that sentiment, arguing that sports events should focus on competition rather than activism.

One supporter posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Nelly Korda just said what millions of fans feel. We watch sports to escape politics, not to be lectured. Respect to her for saying it out loud.”

Others applauded her professionalism, noting that she delivered her message respectfully without disparaging any group.

Critics Call It a Step Backward

However, Korda’s stance has also drawn widespread criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates, fellow athletes, and fans who believe her decision sends the wrong message.

LGBTQ+ sports organization Athlete Ally released a statement expressing disappointment, saying that representation in sports “is not about politics — it’s about people.”

“Visibility matters. When leading athletes choose not to participate in inclusive events, it reinforces the idea that some communities don’t belong,” the statement read.

Former LPGA player Mel Reid, one of the few openly gay professionals on the tour, also weighed in, saying:

“I respect Nelly as an athlete, but inclusion isn’t political. It’s human. Pride Night isn’t about division — it’s about belonging.”

Several fans echoed Reid’s words online, with one viral post reading:

“Sports have always reflected society. Choosing silence in moments that celebrate diversity isn’t neutrality — it’s privilege.”

The Broader Debate: Sports, Politics, and Identity

Korda’s statement has reopened a long-standing debate: should athletes use their platforms to promote social causes, or should sports remain apolitical spaces focused solely on performance?

The question has divided fans and athletes for decades — from Muhammad Ali’s protests in the 1960s, to Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling movement in the NFL, to Naomi Osaka’s mental health advocacy in tennis.

For many, Korda’s comments reflect a growing weariness among athletes who feel burdened by expectations to take political stances.

“Athletes are human beings first,” said Dr. Rebecca Adams, a sports sociologist at Georgetown University. “They have the right to participate — or not participate — in activism. The problem is that every choice now gets politicized, no matter what.”

Still, Adams notes that for high-profile athletes like Korda, neutrality itself can be interpreted as a statement — whether intended or not.

Nelly Korda Stays Silent Amid Backlash

Since releasing her initial statement, Korda has declined further interviews, choosing to focus on her preparation for the upcoming U.S. Women’s Open. Her management team issued a short follow-up note reaffirming her position:

“Nelly stands by her belief that golf should unite people through excellence, not ideology. She respects everyone and asks for the same respect in return.”

Meanwhile, the LPGA has confirmed that “Pride Night” will go ahead as planned, with full support from its sponsors and players.

Despite the controversy, insiders say that the league has no plans to reprimand or sanction Korda, emphasizing that participation remains voluntary.

A Divisive Moment in Modern Golf

Whether praised or condemned, Nelly Korda’s decision has undeniably made waves in a sport that has long been seen as conservative and tradition-bound.

For some, her refusal represents integrity and focus; for others, it reflects a missed opportunity to lead by example. But regardless of where fans stand, few can deny that the debate touches on something deeper — the ongoing question of how athletes balance personal values with public expectations.

As one columnist wrote in The Washington Post:

“Nelly Korda didn’t swing a club, yet she started the biggest conversation in golf this year.”

In an era when sports and society are increasingly intertwined, her stance serves as a reminder that even silence speaks volumes.