Nelly Korda Withdraws from International Crown Due to Injuries

SEOUL, South Korea — World No. 2 Nelly Korda has withdrawn from the U.S. team for the International Crown tournament scheduled for later this month. Korda cited physical weariness, stating her body is ‘definitely worn down’ following a challenging season.

Korda was expected to lead the U.S. team at the event, which takes place from October 23-26 at the New Korea Country Club in Goyang, a city just northwest of Seoul. She will be replaced by Yealimi Noh, who will join Angel Yin, Lauren Coughlin, and Lilia Vu as part of the American squad.

“I have some injuries I’ve had in the past that linger and never fully resolve,” Korda said during a recent press conference. “Making sure you’re 100 percent with your body is always the goal going into the event.”

Earlier this season, Korda struggled with injuries, including neck spasms. She described feeling exhausted as the year progressed and noted that this year’s performance had not met her expectations.

The International Crown features eight teams from various countries, including South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Sweden, Australia, and China, competing in match-play format. The U.S. team is currently seeded first based on player rankings as of August 4.

In addition to Korda’s withdrawal, former world No. 1 Patty Tavatanakit, who has 15 LPGA titles, including two majors, has also withdrawn, with Pajaree Anannarukarn taking her place for Thailand.

The event promises to be competitive, taking place for the fifth time since its inception in 2014. The defending champions are Thailand, who won the previous edition in 2023 against Australia.