As Lydia Ko was welcomed into the LPGA Hall of Fame, by Pat Bradley and Meg Mallon, she could hardly contain her tears. For the 27-year-old Kiwi golfer, it is the culmination of an incredible journey that has seen her become the youngest player to be ranked No. 1 to win the Olympics gold in Paris this year. While she deserves credit for her incredible success, the role of her husband, Jun Chung, in her career cannot be underestimated.

Ko and Chung got married in 2022, after two years of dating. The LPGA golfer has often referred to Chung as her “number 1 supporter” and has been vocal in the past about how Chung, the billionaire son of the vice-chairman and CEO of the prominent Hyundai Card, has made sacrifices so that she can pursue her dreams.

Talking to Golf Channel on Saturday, Ko mentioned how golf has impacted her personal life, after her sister, Sura paid tribute to her in a video. “Golf has given me so much not only results but also some of the relationships I have made. And you know golf is actually a strong bond even between my husband and I. It’s crazy,” Ko said.

Her accomplishments are made sweeter by the unwavering support of Chung, who has become her rock. Chung is often seen accompanying her to events cheering her on. Their bond has become a “good luck charm,” contributing to her successes, including three LPGA Tour victories in 2022.

At the AIG Women’s British Open, Chung was at the Old Course at St.Andrews to support Ko. During the press conference after the second round, Ko talked about the support of her husband.

“I feel bad because he’s having to wake up at 4:00 a.m. with me this morning. Even if I am the most supportive wife when it comes to his work, I’m probably never going to wake up at 4:00 a.m. for him for his job. I’m very thankful that he’s taking a step back and doing things on my time, and I know that’s not easy, so I’m glad that he’s actually getting to enjoy it,” she said.

With Chung by her side, Ko finds balance, making golf more enjoyable, and cherishes their time together, grateful for the love and support that brings fulfillment beyond her golfing achievements. As Ko reflects on her storied career, she’s also mindful that her golfing days are limited. She has already made it clear that she intends to retire before she turns 3o.

“I don’t know when you know my end is going to be but I know that I’m closer to that than when I was 15 or when I first came on Tour and you know I’m excited but you know I’m excited to give it my best and my everything until my very end. And you know it’s definitely a love-hate relationship but you know looking back I think there’s more to love for sure”, she told Golf Channel.

It appears Ko is somewhat clear in her head about when she wants to call it a day and that day isn’t far away. But if she is going out, she is going out strong. Ko shot a 5-under 65 in round three of The Annika to reach into the top 20. She earned the 27th point needed to qualify for the LPGA Hall of Fame at the Paris Olympics.

Then she won the AIG Women’s British Open at St. Andrews for her 22nd career LPGA title. She became the 35th player to enter the LPGA’s Hall and only the 25th player to earn 27 HOF points. But this success hasn’t taken her focus away from retirement plans

“I know for a fact I’m probably never playing past 30”- Lydia Ko

Despite this monumental success, Ko remains committed to her retirement plans, intending to step away from the game before turning 30. “I know for a fact I’m probably never playing past 30,” Ko shared with Radio New Zealand. This timeline has been unchanged by her recent victories, as she desires to leave the game while still playing well and maintaining her passion.

Ko’s decision reflects her shifting priorities, with golf no longer being the sole focus of her life. Recently married and a proud dog mom, Ko emphasized, “Golf doesn’t complete me, it’s just part of me.” Her family, including her husband and sister, have been instrumental in supporting her through challenging times, including a winless 2023 LPGA Tour season.

With her Olympic medal slam complete, Ko is at peace with her decision, reaffirming her intention to make a final call on retirement at the end of the 2024 season. So, all that’s left to do is wait and watch for the inevitable to happen.