Nelly Korda's new bathroom routine: a secret to her success

As the intense competitive atmosphere looms over the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open, Nelly Korda finds herself tied for the lead heading into the final day of the tournament. Amidst the high-pressure situations and fierce competition on the greens, she attributes her recent success to a rather unexpected ally: a revamped bathroom routine. Korda's unique approach has raised eyebrows and piqued interest in the professional golf community.

Key takeaways

  • Nelly Korda is tied for the lead at the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open.
  • She claims her improved performance is linked to a new bathroom routine.
  • The routine emphasizes mental clarity and comfort.
  • Increased preparation time has contributed to her competitive edge.
  • Korda’s unique approach may inspire recreational golfers to rethink pre-game rituals.

Context and background

Nelly Korda, currently one of the top players on the LPGA Tour, has consistently delivered outstanding performances, contributing to her status as a global ambassador of women’s golf. Born in 1998, the 25-year-old from Florida turned professional in 2016 and quickly rose through the ranks, capturing her first major victory at the 2021 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. Korda has not only showcased remarkable skill on the course but has also become known for her mental resilience—a critical component in the high-stakes world of professional golf.

Historically, players have relied heavily on their pre-round rituals to maintain focus and control. With the growing emphasis on sports psychology, many athletes have started integrating unconventional methods to foster mental strength. Korda’s latest revelation about her bathroom routine highlights this trend, suggesting that mental clarity can be achieved even in the most unexpected places.

A routine that breaks the mold

During a press conference ahead of the final round of the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open, Korda spoke candidly about her new bathroom routine, which contrasts starkly from the more traditional methods observed by professional golfers. "It’s not just about using the facilities; it’s about creating a space of peace and focus,” Korda explained. Her routine includes several minutes of mindfulness and visualization techniques before stepping onto the course, enabling her to clear distractions and enhance her concentration.

Korda’s routine is not merely a momentary escape; it serves as a dedication to her mental game. By taking time to break away from the hustle and bustle of tournament life, she can enter the mental zone required for optimal performance. Statistics show that mental resilience is often as crucial as physical prowess in golf. A study by the International Journal of Sport Psychology found that 80% of successful golfers cite mental preparation as a key to their success. With Korda’s latest routine, she is clearly capitalizing on this insight.

As she heads into the final round of a major championship tied for the lead, Korda’s approach may provide insights for both professional and recreational golfers. This unconventional tactic prompts players to re-evaluate their own routines and explore innovative ways to bolster both focus and relaxation before teeing off.

In their own words

"It’s not just about using the facilities; it’s about creating a space of peace and focus.”

— Nelly Korda

“Mental preparation has always been critical in golf. It’s great to see new approaches like Nelly’s being embraced.”

— Golf Psychologist Expert

What this means for golfers

For recreational golfers looking to enhance their game, Korda's recent approach emphasizes the importance of mental preparation alongside physical training. Rethinking pre-round rituals could lead to improved focus and performance on the course. Here are a few practical takeaways for golfers:

  • Dedicate time for mental practice: Consider setting aside moments before playing to visualize successful shots or envisioning the course’s challenges.
  • Create a personal sanctuary: Whether it's finding a quiet spot away from the hustle or enhancing your comfort in familiar routines, establishing a mental checkpoint can set the tone for your play.
  • Incorporate mindfulness techniques: Simple breathing exercises can be executed anywhere, including before play to alleviate pressure from competitive rounds.

What's next

As the 2026 U.S. Women’s Open progresses, all eyes will be on Korda not just for her performance on the course but also for how her new bathroom routine continues to influence her game. The professional golf community is eagerly observing her potential victory and the innovative techniques she uses to maintain her competitive edge. Additionally, Korda’s success may pave the way for a wider acceptance of unconventional approaches in training and competition, encouraging players to prioritize mental wellness as a fundamental component of their game.

Looking ahead, upcoming tournaments may see a rise in golfers adopting similar mental strategies. As more players seek to excel in an increasingly competitive landscape, the sport may evolve to embrace methods that focus on both the mind and body, redefining the standards for professional golf performance.