“You play good, you play bad, you play bad, you play good. You play great, you win, and then you lose.” These words from Danielle Kang encapsulate the unpredictability of golf, a sentiment she’s all too familiar with. After a disappointing T62 finish at the 2025 HSBC Women’s World Championship in Singapore, where Lydia Ko grabbed her first title of the season, Kang requested some space from her fans, saying, “most encouraging things people can say to me right now is saying absolutely nothing. Trust me. I’m doing everything. Just let me figure out how to break 80 on my own with the people I trust, ok?”
The golfer finished the 2025 HSBC Women’s World Championship with a score of 19 over par, so taking a break seemed quite fitting at that time. Kang has also missed the cut three times in the 2025 season so far, including the Founders Cup and the Ford Championship. Seeing Kang struggle so much with self-doubt, Ko has decided to be her guardian angel. But how? Well, in a heartwarming display of support, fellow major champion Lydia Ko is lending a helping hand to Kang, caddying for her at the U.S. Women’s Open qualifying in San Francisco. Ko, who is on a quest to complete her career grand slam, is using her expertise to guide Kang through the challenging Lake Course at The Olympic Club. Despite Kang’s recent struggles, which have seen her drop to 389th in the world, Ko’s gesture shows the strong bond between the two golfers.
Kang’s performance in the qualifying will determine her participation in the U.S. Women’s Open, an event she hasn’t missed since 2009. Meanwhile, Ko’s own focus remains on completing her career grand slam, with the U.S. Women’s Open and KPMG Women’s PGA Championship being the last two pieces of the puzzle.
The two amazing golfers helping each other achieve milestones seems almost fitting, doesn’t it? Well, their bond shouldn’t come off as a surprise considering the number of times Kang has referred to Ko as her ‘Baby sister’.
Danielle Kang and Lydia Ko’s special friendship
Danielle Kang and Lydia Ko, two LPGA phenoms, share a heartwarming friendship that transcends their rivalry on the golf course. Their bond, which began when they met at the US Women’s Amateur Championship over a decade ago, is built on mutual respect and affection. Kang affectionately refers to Ko as her “baby sister,” a term that reflects the depth of their relationship. In fact, Kang has Ko’s number saved in her phone under the exact same label, showcasing the closeness they share.
In 2023, Kang’s affection for Ko was on full display when she got excited about being paired with her at the NWA Championship. She took to Instagram, circling their group and writing, “Playing with baby sis this week. Let’s go.” This playful gesture highlights the sisterly love and camaraderie between these two talented golfers, proving that their friendship is just as strong as their competitive spirits. And with their latest partnership at the U.S. Women’s Open qualifying, they are still showing that their bond with each other is more important than any trophy. So, what do you think? Will Ko really help Kang get back on track? Let us know in the comment section below!
