Nelly Korda Leads TOC as Winds Halt Third Round

Nelly Korda showcased remarkable skill during a challenging third round at the LPGA’s Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. Despite dropping temperatures and escalating winds, Korda excelled, posting an impressive 8-under 64. This performance elevated her to the top of the Tournament of Champions leaderboard at Lake Nona.

Nelly Korda’s Dominant Performance

Entering the day three strokes off the lead, Korda now stands at 13 under par after three rounds. She is currently the clubhouse leader while some competitors remain on the course. The third round was halted at 4:18 p.m. ET due to severe winds rendering the 17th hole unplayable.

Conditions Impacting the Tournament

LPGA officials described the situation as “uber unfair,” particularly for players like Korda and Canada’s Brooke Henderson, who were already finished for the day. As play was suspended, Amy Yang and Youmin Hwang, both pursuing Korda, will have to wait until Sunday to finish their rounds.

• Nelly Korda: 8-under 64, 13 under total
• Amy Yang: 10 under
• Youmin Hwang: 8 under (still on course)
• Brooke Henderson: 6 back

Future Schedule and Weather Conditions

Play is scheduled to resume at 10 a.m. ET on Sunday, with temperatures expected to hover around 30 degrees. Both the conclusion of the third round and the final round will commence simultaneously with groups starting from split tees.

This change means Korda will not compete in the final threesome. She mentioned that the wind during the final holes left her in “survival mode.” Despite the conditions, she mentally prepared for the challenges, especially on the exposed 17th hole.

Challenges Faced on the Course

Korda described putting on the 17th as particularly difficult, noting that her ball was “definitely oscillating” due to high winds. The gusts, exacerbated by the course’s proximity to water, created challenging circumstances for all players.

Broadcast Schedule for Sunday

The LPGA talent will continue to navigate these conditions as they conclude the third round and begin the final round. Here’s the broadcast schedule for Sunday:

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Korda and her closest competitors as they tackle the challenges ahead.