2021 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship Recap: Nelly Korda dominates

What a week it was at Atlanta Athletic Club for the 2021 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. After a great weekend dueling for the title at the historic venue, Nelly Korda bested Lizette Salas on Sunday to capture her first major title and sixth LPGA tour win. It also elevated Korda to the number one ranking in the world. Korda’s final round 68 was enough to clear Salas by three shots, and her 12 foot par putt on the 18th hole was followed with celebration, the most emotion the even-keeled Korda had shown all week long.

The emotion continued after her sister, Jessica Korda, met her on the green for an embrace, along with her mom. It was a touching moment, and it was also great to see Jessica wish Nelly luck right before she teed off in the final group. The timing worked out perfectly, as Jessica told a reporter after her round that she wasn’t sure if that opportunity would arise.

Korda’s 68 on Sunday was a testament to her game. Her consistency shined bright, but her length was the difference. The two eagles she had on holes five and 12 were massive momentum swings on Sunday, and she stayed poised after finding the water off the tee on 15.

Salas, who has certainly found some momentum after a T6 finish in Grand Rapids, shot a final round 71 after three consecutive 67s. Her putter, which was incredible all week long, was a bit of the downfall Sunday. Putts that rolled in all week just came up short and burned edges all day. Still, there’s plenty to take away from the week for Salas, and that momentum could carry through the rest of the season.

Italy’s Giulia Molinaro had a fantastic week as well, finishing T3 at 10-under, dominating the Par 5s on Sunday, and proving she can stay in contention at a major.

In this full recap, we will look at Korda’s great performance at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, the battle between length and the tactical approach, and a sport that’s on the rise.