Nelly Korda Chasing Leaders and First Win of 2025 at JM Eagle LA Championship

Nelly Korda, the undisputed queen of women’s golf in 2024, is back in the spotlight and hunting for her first victory of the 2025 LPGA season at the JM Eagle LA Championship. After a dominant previous season that saw her claim a historic five consecutive titles, including a major triumph at the Chevron Championship, the 25-year-old American star is now mounting a serious charge up the leaderboard at Wilshire Country Club.

Through three rounds of intense and sometimes grueling competition, Korda finds herself just a few strokes off the pace, trailing the leaders but well within striking distance. Saturday’s third round saw Korda fire a confident 4-under 67, a clear signal that she is finding her rhythm again and reminding the field that she is still one of the most dangerous closers in the game.

Despite a relatively quiet start to 2025—one that has seen several top-10 finishes but no victories—Korda’s form has been building steadily. And now, in the heart of Los Angeles, she appears poised to finally break through. “I feel like everything is coming together,” Korda said after her round. “My swing feels great, I’m reading the greens well, and I’m starting to trust myself a lot more.”

A Familiar Hunt

Korda’s pursuit of the leaders comes with high expectations. The world No. 1 has set an almost impossible standard for herself after her scorching 2024 campaign, which not only included multiple wins but also a commanding presence on every leaderboard she graced. Her global fanbase, as well as her competitors, have been waiting for the moment she catches fire again—and Sunday’s final round may deliver exactly that.

She’ll need to fend off a crowded field that includes some of the LPGA’s rising stars and battle-tested veterans. Players like Atthaya Thitikul, Lilia Vu, and Brooke Henderson have all been jockeying for position near the top, with low scores across the board on a firm and fast Wilshire setup. But Korda’s calm demeanor and proven track record in high-pressure situations may give her the edge.

Eyes on History

Should Korda clinch the title on Sunday, it would mark her 13th career LPGA victory and a statement that her reign at the top is far from over. The milestone would also add another chapter to her already legendary story—a tale that includes an Olympic gold medal, a major championship, and the longest win streak in modern LPGA history.

But for Korda, the chase is less about numbers and more about passion. “I love this game, and I love the challenge of it,” she said. “You’re never really done. There’s always something to prove—to yourself more than anyone.”

The Final Push

As the final round looms, Korda will tee off with a strong sense of purpose. Her iron play has been razor-sharp all week, and if she can convert more putts on Sunday, the leaders could find themselves looking over their shoulders.

A win at the JM Eagle LA Championship would be more than just a trophy—it would be a message to the golf world: Nelly Korda is still the one to beat in 2025.