Korda eyes 'dream' Women's British Open win at St Andrews

Nelly Korda, aged 26, expressed on Wednesday that securing a victory at the Women's British Open in St Andrews would be a "dream come true."

This prestigious tournament is being held at the Old Course in Scotland for only the third time, with the last occurrence in 2013.

A win for Korda, daughter of former Australian Open tennis champion Petr Korda, would mark a remarkable conclusion to her 2024 season, following her triumph at the Chevron Championship, the first major of the year.

Her victory in April was part of an impressive streak, where she claimed six titles in seven tournaments. However, a win at St Andrews, a site renowned for its historic men's British Open events, would hold significant value in Korda's distinguished career.

"There is an abundance of rich history here, and it has been truly exhilarating," Korda remarked during a pre-tournament press conference.

"The views coming down the 18th hole are breathtaking. It promises to be an extraordinary week."

She continued, "Having my name inscribed in history would indeed be a dream realized."

Korda emphasized, "Nevertheless, my focus will remain on taking one shot at a time, without contemplating Sunday. My thoughts will be solely on my first tee shot on Thursday."

Korda is among a competitive field vying for victory on the esteemed coastal course.

Lydia Ko from New Zealand arrives in Scotland following her recent Olympic gold medal achievement in Paris, while Japan's Ayaka Furue aims to build on her success at the Evian Championship.

The strong South Korean representation includes Amy Yang, the Women's PGA Championship winner, and world number three Ko Jin-young, alongside Lilia Vu from the United States, who returns to defend her title.

British hopes are primarily placed on 2018 champion Georgia Hall and last year's runner-up, world number 10 Charley Hull.

Additionally, former champion Catriona Matthew has announced that this will be her final Women's Open.

The 54-year-old Scot, who first participated in the tournament in 1993 and won the title in 2009, stated, "It felt fitting to play my last tournament in St Andrews, Scotland, the home of golf."

I have come to the understanding that at the age of 55, which I will reach next year, I will not possess the level of competitiveness I desire, indicating that all things must eventually conclude.