Nelly Korda Takes Command at 2024 AIG Women's Open with Impressive Second-Round 68
Nelly Korda is poised to close out an exceptional season with another major victory at the 2024 AIG Women's Open. After two consecutive rounds of 68, the world's top-ranked golfer heads into the weekend at St. Andrews with a strong lead, setting the pace in a tournament where control has been hard to maintain.
Finishing Friday morning at 8 under par, Korda held a three-shot advantage over competitors Lilia Vu and Charley Hull.
The Old Course has presented players with more than just typical major championship pressure. High winds and persistent rain have tested their creativity and skill, making precise shots and strategic play essential over the first two rounds.
Reflecting on her performance, Korda shared, "This year, I've had to adapt to various conditions and types of grasses, and that's part of the challenge in golf, much like in life. Links golf is particularly fun because it demands so much creativity—like hitting massive fades, which I usually don't do. I'm enjoying it and learning more each year I play."
Korda has shown remarkable consistency, with just one bogey in her first 36 holes and nine birdies. Starting her second round on the back nine, she surged to the top of the leaderboard with consecutive birdies on the 17th and 18th holes for the second day in a row.
Her steady play continued on the front nine, where two more birdies extended her lead to three strokes. As she aims for her second major victory of the season and the third of her career, Korda's performance has been a highlight of the tournament.
After a dominant start to her 2024 season, which included six victories in her first eight events and a win at the Chevron Championship, Korda faced challenges in subsequent majors, including missed cuts at the U.S. Women's Open and the KPMG Women's PGA Championship.
Her attempt to defend her Olympic gold medal in Paris fell short, as she slipped out of medal contention on the final day. However, Korda has since refined her game, crediting her improved play to a new mallet putter and her adaptability on the course.
"I'm focused on staying in the moment, taking it one shot at a time," Korda said. "Whatever challenges come my way, I'm ready to face them head-on."
As the weekend approaches, Korda's composure and skill will be key to securing another major title.