Women’s sports are currently experiencing a surge in popularity.
The women’s March Madness tournament made history, especially with Iowa’s Caitlin Clark making headlines. The Iowa vs UConn Final Four game had twice as many viewers as The Masters, showing a decline in Augusta National ratings.
This rise in women’s sports is not limited to college basketball.
The LPGA is also growing and expanding. Recently, the LPGA announced a record purse for the Chevron Championship, the first major of the year.
Nelly Korda’s success has played a significant role.
Korda has been dominating the LPGA Tour, winning four consecutive events in 2024 with a chance to make it five this week. Her achievements this year are exceptional, reminiscent of Lorena Ochoa in 2008 and Annika Sorenstam in 2004 and 2005.
Leading up to the Chevron Championship, Lilia Vu, the World No. 2, likened Korda to Caitlin Clark.
She referred to Korda as “our Caitlin Clark out here,” highlighting the impact of Korda and Clark on their respective sports.
Women’s college basketball viewership has increased due to stars like Clark and her draft class.
Clark, particularly, has become a major attraction, holding the record for the all-time leading scorer in Division I basketball.
Nelly Korda’s success is also contributing to the growth of women’s golf, with players like Rose Zhang recognizing her achievements and impact on the sport.
Korda’s recent wins in LPGA events have solidified her position as a dominant force in women’s golf.
Other players acknowledge Korda as one of the best in the world, regardless of gender.
The question remains: Can Korda secure another major win and extend her winning streak, or will a challenger emerge?
Savannah Leigh Richardson is a golf staff writer for SBNation’s Playing Through. For more golf coverage, follow us @_PlayingThrough on all major social platforms. You can also follow her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports.