Denied Same Chances as Nelly Korda & Co for a Long Time, Lydia Ko Admits to Feeling Annoyed & Hurt

While her fellow LPGA stars celebrated countless team victories over the years, Lydia Ko watched from the sidelines. The New Zealand star, despite her elite status and major victories, remained isolated from the camaraderie of team competition that many of her peers regularly enjoyed.

Team events in women’s professional golf created an invisible barrier. Whether it was the Solheim Cup between Europe and USA or other team formats, geographic limitations left many top players unable to participate. This mainly affected Ko, who carried New Zealand’s flag with distinction but lacked opportunities for team play at the highest level.

“I was pretty annoyed,” Ko revealed during the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions press conference. “Especially being a person that loves being in that team environment.” Her connection to team golf runs deep, dating back to her amateur days. “I loved that as an amateur playing on the National Team or provincial events. That’s why I love even the Grant Thornton and Dow. Even though it’s a two-person team, still having a partner is such a cool feeling.”