Nelly Korda hits out at Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy over WTGL format

Nelly Korda has publicly questioned the direction of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s new tech-infused golf venture after learning that the newly formed Women’s TGL (WTGL) will not feature a mixed-gender format.

The World No. 2 had hoped the league — developed by Woods and McIlroy’s TMRW Sports — would see men and women competing together on the same stage. Instead, WTGL will operate as a standalone women’s league, mirroring the six-team format currently used in TGL.

Speaking ahead of the LPGA Tour’s season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in Orlando, Korda, 27, admitted she was disappointed by the decision.

“I have mixed feelings on it if I’m being very honest,” Korda told Golfweek. 

“I think it’s a huge and unbelievable miss that we’re not playing alongside the men. There’s no greater way to grow the game, and it would have been revolutionary.

“It would have been the first time, I think, that men and women are on the same playing field, playing for the same exact amount of money. But I also think it’s great that we are getting this opportunity, so that’s my mixed feelings.”

Korda, one of the most influential figures in women’s golf, added that she was surprised more LPGA players had not spoken publicly about the issue.

Despite her criticism, the American has not ruled out participating in the league, which is expected to begin in December. 

However, she admitted she is still undecided.

“I’m just still weighing out the time commitment,” she said. “I’ve been really focused on trying to get ready for this season. Logistically, they’re still trying to figure some stuff out, so I’ll weigh out my options in the near future.”

A 15-time LPGA Tour winner and two-time major champion, Korda is one of the biggest draws in the women’s game. 

Her absence from WTGL would be a notable blow as the league looks to establish credibility in its inaugural season.

WTGL has already begun assembling a high-profile roster. On the same day as Korda’s comments, the league announced the signings of former World Amateur No. 1s Rose Zhang and Lottie Woad. 

They join a growing list of committed players including Jeeno Thitikul, Lydia Ko, Lexi Thompson, Brooke Henderson and Charley Hull.

Hull was seen taking in her first experience of TGL earlier this week.