Behind every great athlete is a story of dedication—not just from the player, but from the family that supported their dreams. In the case of world-renowned golfer Nelly Korda, that story begins with her parents, Petr Korda and Regina Rajchrtová, whose sacrifices played a crucial role in shaping her path to greatness.
Petr Korda, a former Australian Open tennis champion, and Regina Rajchrtová, a former Olympic tennis player for Czechoslovakia, were no strangers to the demands of elite sports. Yet when it came to their children—especially Nelly—they didn’t push tennis. Instead, they gave their kids the freedom to explore and ultimately embrace golf, a move that would change the course of Nelly’s life forever.
What’s most astonishing about their story is the level of commitment the Korda parents displayed. They made the conscious decision to step away from the spotlight and slow down their own lives to focus entirely on nurturing their children’s athletic careers. This meant moving their family to the U.S., tailoring their schedules around practice sessions, and even homeschooling at times to accommodate travel for tournaments.
Financially, the early years were challenging. Golf isn’t a cheap sport—especially at the junior level. The equipment, coaching, travel, and competition fees all add up quickly. Petr and Regina funneled their resources into ensuring their daughter had the best opportunities, often at the expense of personal luxuries or long-term financial stability. Every dollar was an investment in Nelly’s future.
Emotionally, the sacrifices were equally significant. Regina, who had experienced the rigors of international competition herself, often traveled with Nelly, providing both emotional support and stability. Petr took on the role of mentor and fitness coach, often waking up early for training sessions and helping maintain her mental toughness. Their commitment wasn’t just about logistics—it was about building a foundation of resilience and discipline.
Perhaps the biggest sacrifice was time. While most parents were watching their children grow up during quiet family dinners and weekend outings, the Kordas were often on the road, hopping between golf courses and tournaments. The family’s bond had to be forged in hotel rooms, airports, and practice greens. But that unorthodox upbringing produced not just a champion, but a deeply grounded young woman.
Today, as Nelly Korda enjoys the heights of success—including multiple LPGA wins and Olympic gold—she does so on the back of her parents’ sacrifices. Their relentless support, quiet strength, and belief in her potential made her journey possible. And truly, the price they paid along the way is nothing short of unbelievable.
