Just like Roger Federer, Nelly Korda has inspired countless people to take up sports. But the former professional tennis player and Sebastian Korda’s captain on the Davis Cup team, Mardy Fish, connected Federer and Korda based on their demeanor. 

“She’s almost like [Roger] Federer in a way, her attitude,” Fish stated at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. “You don't know if she makes a birdie or a bogey on a hole. You kinda didn't know if he won or lost the point. It’s just kinda the way he handled himself.” 

Korda shares Federer’s calm and controlled demeanor. Remember when Madelene Sagstrom made her career’s first ace at El Caballero Country Club? Korda was shouting and was the first one to high-five her. But she calmed her nerves when it was her turn to hit. Unfortunately, she made a bogey. Yes, she appeared disappointed. But she was still calm and composed. 

Fish continued, “It's really difficult to do that. I can't do that. I'm feisty and I get p******, and yell and scream at myself and my caddie and all that stuff. At least I try not to, but I do. They’re awesome."

Additionally, Korda herself has expressed her admiration on multiple occasions. She grew up admiring Federer and Rafael Nadal and developed herself as “the blend of the two.”

Nelly Korda even acted as the classical fangirl, offering to coach Federer when he tried to pick up golf as a new hobby in 2024. But can she match the tennis legends’ mentality?

Nelly Korda is a fangirl

After gaining a two-shot lead at the 2024 Mizuho Americas Open, Korda reflected on her role models who helped her achieve so much in her career. 

"I think I have always had this mentality. I have always given it 100%. I have had. I have looked up to great athletes like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer."

She continued, "I hope I have the grace that Federer has and then the fight that Nadal has. Just having people that I've looked up to and I've seen, and I've admired, I hope that's something that I carry onto the golf course.”

Korda blends calm composure with fierce competitiveness. And her mindset continues to shape her success and inspire admiration well beyond the LPGA.

Written by

Krushna Pattnaik

Edited by

Joyita Das