Major Title Defense in Jeopardy

THE WOODLANDS, Texas — Nelly Korda’s title defense at the Chevron Championship is already in serious jeopardy after a disastrous opening round on Thursday. The world No. 1 stumbled to a five-over 77 that left her 12 shots off the lead and four strokes below the projected cut line.

Korda, who won this event last year during an incredible run that saw her capture four consecutive tournaments, looked uncharacteristically lost at The Club at Carlton Woods. The round included a troubling stretch of four consecutive bogeys, with her lone birdie coming at the par-5 eighth hole.

“I just have to go work. I mean, I’m not hitting it well,” a visibly frustrated Korda said afterward. When asked what the biggest challenge was during her round, she simply replied: “golf.”

No Warning Signs

There were few indications that such a struggle was coming. While Korda hasn’t won yet in 2025, she’s posted two top-10 finishes in five starts this season with nothing worse than a T-28 showing. Thursday’s 77 was her worst score of the year by four shots.

The problems were widespread throughout her game. Korda hit only 8 of 14 fairways and 11 greens in regulation, while needing 33 putts to complete her round. She had switched to a blade putter last week in Los Angeles, moving away from the mallet she’d been using since last August. Golf Channel reported that after her round, Korda was practicing with a mallet back in her hands.

Fan Favorite Despite Struggles

Despite her on-course struggles, Korda maintained her commitment to fans. She spent at least 10 minutes signing autographs in the kids zone after her round, including signing the pajamas of 2½-month-old Texas twin girls named Scottie Jo (after Scheffler) and Collins.

“I think that’s awesome that she’s out here for more than just competing,” said Trevor Olson, the twins’ father. “She’s out here for all the young fans, especially the babies.”

With more than 63 players shooting even par or better in the opening round, Korda faces an uphill battle to make the weekend cut and continue her title defense at the year’s first major championship.