Lydia Ko's year of perseverance, triumphs, and personal growth

As the 2024 LPGA season winds down, Lydia Ko has been candid about the highs, lows, and turning points that defined her year. From rekindling her confidence on the course to balancing life off it, the 27-year-old golfer paints a picture of resilience and evolution.

With three LPGA victories, including a Major at the AIG Women's Open, Olympic gold in Paris and qualifying for the LPGA Hall of Fame, there are a lot of highlights but the year hasn't been without its challenges.

A season of contrasts

Ko began the year with a strong start, capturing a win at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions at her home club in Lake Nona in January. However, a challenging spring and summer followed, casting doubt on her momentum.

“I don’t think there were a lot of expectations going into the Olympics because I hadn’t had many Top 10s leading into that event,” Ko shared. Despite this, the CPKC Women's Open reignited her form. “It’s already a special event for me, having had my first LPGA win there. I was able to get a lot of confidence back, and I think that led to the three wins in my four starts.”

Ko’s reflections on the season are tinged with gratitude, especially for her team and family. “To be able to share these moments with them has honestly been a fairytale of a season,” she said.

Earning recognition from peers

Ko’s peers honoured her perseverance with this year's Heather Farr Perseverance Award, a tribute she described as deeply meaningful.

“It means a lot, especially because it’s voted on by the fellow players on Tour. We all go through a lot, whether it’s golf-related or off the course,” Ko explained. “To be recognized for the journey I’ve had is a huge honor.”

Ko expressed admiration for the award’s namesake, Heather Farr, whose resilience in the face of adversity continues to inspire.

Mental lows and finding strength

While Ko has achieved nearly every accolade available in professional golf, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Reflecting on the toughest times in her career, she said, “It’s crazy, because it’s hard to evaluate. Sometimes I was playing some of my best golf, but mentally I wasn’t in a great place.”

A mental coach has been pivotal in helping Ko overcome those moments. “She cleared and helped me with those demons in my head. The saying of being your worst enemy comes from truth. I think she’s been a huge help for me in that case,” Ko said.

Her four-legged companion, Kai, has also played a significant role in her mental health. Adopted earlier this year, the Shiba Inu brought new joy to Ko’s life. “I remember coming home after a mediocre round at the Canadian Open, and Kai was so excited to see me. He reminded me there’s so much more to life than what I just shot,” she recalled.

Rediscovering her flow

A key turning point came during the CPKC Women's Open, where Ko found her rhythm again. “When you start not seeing the results you’re expecting, it’s harder because you’re almost taking a bigger leap. That event was a big step for me,” she said.

Ko credited her coaches for helping her regain trust in her game. “I felt a lot more comfortable being out there, just knowing the ball was going to move the way I wanted. It can be as quick as one round to get that confidence back,” she said.

Looking ahead

As Ko reflects on a career filled with highs and lows, her gratitude is evident. “I’ve had my ups and downs - some of the best golf I’ve played, and then struggling for five or six years. In ways, I wish I had a more consistent career, but I’m so grateful for all these experiences,” she said.

Her season has been marked by both professional and personal triumphs. Whether it’s celebrating wins, navigating challenges, or finding joy in the small moments, Lydia Ko continues to inspire on and off the course.

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