Lydia Ko received a career-changing 'wake-up call' from a fellow professional. The advice from Stacy Lewis helped her escape the pressure of her own past success and find a new perspective on the course.

The Hall of Fame member has had the opportunity to discuss a low point she experienced in 2017 and 2018. It was a period when she was unable to play at a high level, and not for lack of trying.

During this period of struggle, a frank discussion with veteran Stacy Lewis proved to be the ultimate "wake-up call." Lewis advised her not to try to mimic the player she was when she was top of the world in 2015.

"I think that was just the perfect way to putt, I am never going to be that same person, and all I can do is be the best person and best player I am in the present," Ko stated during the Fortinet Founders Cup pre-tournament press conference.

The guidance was an important adjustment for Ko. She understands that younger competitors tend to play without inhibition because they have yet to suffer the emotional burns of professional defeat.

With this new mindset, Ko has learned to manage anxiety and adversity more effectively. She understands that she cannot battle the wind or the audience, but she can manage her internal reactions.

Lydia Ko Revealed Her Struggles and Strategic Growth

The internal shift was due to Ko’s struggles in the 2017-2018 timeframe. After being unstoppable in terms of winning and securing majors, she transitioned to feeling the pressure of defending her world No. 1 ranking.

Back in 2023, she admitted that Hall of Fame talks had weighed on her mind and affected her performance on the greens. "I think so. That would be a lie, I think, if you said no,” Ko admitted.

Even in recent tournaments in Singapore and Thailand, she has recognized and admitted to making certain strategic mistakes. More often than not, she reflects on having been overly aggressive in a scenario where she should have played a conservative shot.

"If I told you I didn't make any mistakes anymore, I'd be lying. I wish that was the base. But I also think I learn the most when I am put in those kinds of situations," added Ko.

With the top-tier competitors in the 2026 Fortinet Founders Cup, Ko will look to regain a few spots in the world rankings.

You can read more at Club Golf!

Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi