Nelly Korda Pays Tribute to Former World No.1 as LPGA Legend Retires.
Stacy Lewis has had enough.
“I’m going to miss the LPGA Tour family and this part of my life, but my body has told me it’s time.”
That’s how the 13-time LPGA winner and former world No. 1, announced her retirement ahead of her round at the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship.
The 40-year-old pro has been one of the most influential figures in women’s golf, especially for Nelly Korda’s generation, who grew up watching her dominate the sport.
From winning two majors to captaining Team USA at back-to-back Solheim Cups, Lewis built a legacy that shaped the next generation.
Korda, now a major champion herself, reflected on Lewis’ impact during Friday’s press conference after carding a 2-under 69, trailing six shots behind the leader, Katsu Minami.
“Honestly ever since my rookie year she’s (Lewis) someone that has done so much for American women’s golf and women’s golf in general,” Korda expressed.
“Getting to know her through Solheim Cup, her captaincy, has been so so fun. Getting to share this round with her the next two days has been incredible. But at the end of the day she’s someone that I looked up to. She’s such great role model. And I wish her all the best in her next chapter in her life.”
Lewis competed in four Solheim Cups and later took on the captain’s role in 2023 and 2024. Her leadership left a mark, especially last year when Team USA clinched a dramatic win at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club.
Nelly Korda, having been part of both squads under Lewis’ captaincy, saw firsthand how she handled the pressure. When asked about her biggest takeaway from her ex-captain’s career, Korda didn’t hesitate.
“Resilience,” she stated during the press conference at Pinnacle Country Club.
“(Lewis) has such an amazing story. I mean, even coming back, she was talking to me today. She really wanted to win after having Chesnee and that was her goal and she ended up doing it. Her hard work, her work ethic, resilience, that speaks for itself.”
Lewis’ comeback after giving birth to her daughter Chesnee in 2018 was one of the biggest headlines in the LPGA.
Not only this, but back in 2017, after winning the Cambia Portland Classic, she donated her entire $195,000 winner’s check to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts in her hometown of Houston.
Now, as she steps away from competition, Lewis leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished forever.
