Breaking the Stereotype of Golf World, Former World No.1 Lydia Ko Gives a Reality Check About Women’s Golf During $2.75M Event

The Mizuho American Open Championship is currently the focus of attention in the golfing world. On the course, many well-known LPGA stars are giving it their all in the $2.75 million event. Lydia Ko, a former No. 1 player, is also exhibiting her impressive abilities at the course. She shot a three-under 69 in the opening round and is tied for fifth place with seven other players.

Ko not only excels on the course but also frequently speaks out against prejudices in golf and the problems that women face in the sport. And this time, it’s another such brutal confession that has caught the attention of the golf world. So what were these stereotype-breaking words of hers? Let’s find out.

Lydia Ko busts a popular myth about golfers

Of late, the LPGA Tour has seen a lot of its events played in New Jersey. Even the current championship, where Ko ended her first round tied for fifth, was in Jersey. Moreover, two of the next three events will be played in the Garden State! Hence, when the former world No. 1 took the stand at her post-round interview, it was a no-brainer that she was asked about the new state location for the events where the LPGA stars would travel up and down.

While many assume that the immense and constant travel is something athletes all over the world enjoy, Ko certainly wasn’t one of them. And in the interview, she busted the myth around the stereotype of golfers enjoying travel!

Talking about living in New York and ferrying over to the courses in Jersey and all over, Ko responded, saying it wasn’t typically fun. “Staying in New York, ferrying over—you know, it’s not like your typical week. I don’t think people should like it; people are outside looking in, ‘Oh, this is their lifestyle all the time.’ That’s not true,” said the former No. 1 golfer in the interview.

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Despite her troubles with the travel, Ko is still excited for the event, especially with the format that Michelle Wie West is applying to it. As per the format, 24 junior players from the AJGA are competing with 120 LPGA pros in an effort to enhance and promote women’s golf. For the LPGA star, this provides a unique opportunity to play some excellent golf with the youngsters and help grow the game!

This week, however, wasn’t the 26-year-old’s first time busting stereotypes. Last year, she did so too, discussing an issue many women refuse to talk about publicly!

Ko once broke the stereotype and set a standard for all women

Menstruation has long been a taboo subject in all spheres of society, including the world of professional athletics. Periods can affect performance; however, it’s not a topic often discussed at sports events. Many athletes also refrain from talking about it because it can lead to uncomfortable circumstances. But Ko isn’t one of them, refuses to shy away from discussing it.

At the Palos Verdes Championship’s championship round in 2022, she requested some on-course treatment for her back. Following the round, Jerry Foltz, a commentator for the Golf Channel, questioned her about the medical attention she had sought.

“It’s that time of the month,” said Ko. “I know the ladies watching are probably like, yeah, I got you. So, when that happens, my back gets really tight, and I’m all twisted. It’s not the first time that Chris has seen me twisted, but it felt a lot better after he came. So, yeah, there you go.”

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Along with her remarkable game, fans undoubtedly admire Lydia Ko for her honesty and candor. Wouldn’t you agree? Let us know in the comments below!