2024 Olympics: Nelly Korda, Rose Zhang love epic atmosphere women’s golf

Round 1 of the women’s golf competition for the 2024 Olympics is over. Nelly Korda and Rose Zhang both signed for even par 72.

Le Golf National tested them, but neither felt defeated about their performances despite sitting seven shots behind the round one leader, Celine Boutier. The Frenchwoman fired off a 7-under 65 to set the tone and led by three.

Both Team USA members were stunned by the crowds and the incredible atmosphere at the golf course.

“The atmosphere was insane,” Korda said. “I can’t even imagine what it is like within Celine’s [Boutier] group. I’ve heard a couple of the roars, and it’s been such an amazing experience so far.”

She explained that having a Solheim Cup at Le Golf National would be a lot of fun. The venue hosted the 2018 Ryder Cup, and the crowds were incredible then.

The 21-year-old phenom felt the same and expressed how great seeing more people supporting women’s golf was.

Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images

“It’s nice to have the crowds, and there’s a little more light on women’s golf. That’s fun, especially with it being the Olympics,” Zhang explained. “The crowds have been amazing no matter what you do or what you shoot. They are still cheering you on and cheering for your country. It’s still really nice to have that support.”

The Olympics often attract massive crowds. This edition of the Games, especially since 2021, saw COVID-19 restrict everything. Patriotism is at its peak, but more importantly, having these kinds of crowds for women’s golf is a huge moment for the sport.

Korda expanded on the women’s growth and discussed how surreal that first tee experience was for her to see that many people there.

Photo by EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP via Getty Images

“I saw the crowds for the men,” Korda explained. “To see the similar crowds for the women is mind-blowing. I wasn’t sure what to expect walking onto that first tee. Then I looked out to the green, and I saw like four people deep. I told Jason, ‘Oh my gosh, this is absolutely amazing.’ I did not expect this many people to come out.”

The 14-time LPGA winner has been a big component of growing the women’s game. It is a product that continues to rise and draw in people. Seeing this at the Olympics sheds so much light on how good these ladies are.

Those who want to watch Korda’s gold medal defense can tune in at 5:55 a.m. ET for Round 2 with Jin Young Ko and Ruoning Yin. Zhang tees off with Charley Hull and Hannah Green at 5:44 a.m. ET.

Savannah Leigh Richardson is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. For more golf coverage, follow us @_PlayingThrough on all major social platforms. You can also follow her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @golf_girl_sl.