Attendees typically seen during the weekend were present Wednesday at the Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, as The Annika’s pro-am showcased two of the most prominent figures in women’s athletics aligned with each other. Competing alongside one another for the second consecutive year, Nelly Korda and Caitlin Clark teamed up for nine holes, with Clark’s Indiana Fever colleagues, Lexi Hull and Sophie Cunningham, serving as caddies for a portion of the event.
“It’s wild,” Korda expressed. “That initial tee was like something from a fantasy story. But it’s quite enjoyable. It’s remarkable to observe the number of individuals she attracts to another sport, and it’s delightful to spend time with her. She’s incredibly pleasant. We crossed paths last week at a gathering, and it’s wonderful to be in the company of such exceptional individuals; even her teammates are a lot of fun. It’s been fantastic thus far.”
At this point last year, both athletes were riding high as they participated in the pro-am together. Korda had been acknowledged as the LPGA Player of the Year resulting from her six triumphs leading up to that moment in the season, later adding a seventh by clinching victory at The Annika that same week.
Clark was transitioning from her WNBA Rookie of the Year term for the Fever. While her second season involved ailments that prevented her participation — both on the court and on the golf course — at different junctures, the skilled shooter communicated that she has regained full health and is seeking to capitalize on the favorable weather conditions before the arrival of winter.
“I believe it simply illustrates the extent of the impact that mutual encouragement can genuinely possess,” Clark shared with Golf Channel. “I’ve consistently been a significant proponent of that concept and of supporting women’s sports. I’ve always been a strong admirer, whether of golf or soccer, volleyball, or any other sport. Therefore, it’s genuinely enjoyable to observe [Nelly] practice her skill up close and witness her level of expertise.
“Having had the opportunity to play with her last year, and having engaged in a few other rounds with her, she creates the illusion that golf is remarkably straightforward. You almost wonder, How? She’s excellent, and I am supporting her in achieving victory this week.”
Despite a successful streak in 2025 that has encompassed eight top-10 placements in 17 appearances, Korda has remained outside the victor’s position since securing it at this competition the prior year. She is entering The Annika having been inactive since the initial week of October, during which she achieved a T4 finish at the LOTTE Championship.
Regardless of the period of inactivity, the world’s No. 2 player possesses considerable advantages this week, considering her level of familiarity with this golf course and another amble around it with an acquainted individual on Wednesday.
“I believe she derives pleasure from everything she undertakes,” Korda stated regarding Clark. “There are only a limited number of elements that can be managed effectively. We are required to manage numerous responsibilities, and the fact that she can maintain such a relaxed and easygoing demeanor, finding enjoyment and engaging in conversations with everyone, is truly admirable to observe.”
