The golf world is reeling from a bombshell dropped by Nelly Korda, the world No. 1, who has publicly accused fellow golfer Maja Stark of colluding with the United States Golf Association (USGA) to orchestrate her withdrawal from the U.S. Women’s Open 2025 at Erin Hills, Wisconsin. Korda’s emotional outburst, “It’s not fair to me,” came in a heated press conference where she claimed Stark and the USGA conspired to sideline her, paving the way for Stark to pursue the championship title and the record-breaking $12 million purse. The allegations have sent shockwaves through the sport, igniting debates about ethics, competition, and the integrity of one of golf’s most prestigious events.
Korda’s accusations stem from her unexpected exit from the tournament, initially attributed to health concerns after a lackluster 1-over-par performance in the opening rounds. However, she now asserts that her withdrawal was influenced by behind-the-scenes maneuvering. According to Korda, Stark, a rising star on the LPGA Tour, allegedly worked with USGA officials to exploit her health-related vulnerabilities, pressuring her to step back. Korda provided no concrete evidence in her statement but hinted at “unfair rulings” and “private conversations” that she believes tilted the competition in Stark’s favor. The USGA has issued a brief response, denying any misconduct and affirming their commitment to fair play.
Maja Stark, who has been a consistent contender this season, was quick to dismiss the claims, calling them “baseless and hurtful.” In a statement, she expressed disappointment, noting her respect for Korda as a competitor and emphasizing her focus on her own performance. Stark’s camp pointed out her strong showing at Erin Hills, where she sits near the leaderboard’s top, as evidence of her skill rather than any conspiracy. Fans are divided, with some rallying behind Korda’s passionate plea for justice, while others see her accusations as a reaction to the pressures of maintaining her dominance.
The controversy has overshadowed the tournament’s competitive narrative, which includes standout performances from players like A Lim Kim. Analysts worry that the allegations could tarnish the event’s reputation, especially given its historic purse and prominence in women’s golf. Social media platforms, particularly X, are ablaze with reactions, ranging from support for Korda’s courage to skepticism about her claims’ validity. The golf community is now watching closely to see if further details emerge or if Korda’s team pursues formal action.
This saga underscores the intense emotions and rivalries in professional golf, where stakes are high and trust is paramount. As the U.S. Women’s Open 2025 continues, the focus remains split between the fairways and this unfolding drama. Whether Korda’s allegations hold weight or fade as speculation, her bold stance has sparked a conversation that will linger long after the final putt drops.
