ORLANDO, Fla. — Being the best female golfer in the world carries tremendous weight, and nobody knows that better than Annika Sorenstam, who won 10 majors throughout her illustrious career.
Media obligations, sponsor invites, practicing, and maintaining that competitive edge are all daily aspects of standing atop the world rankings, among countless other things.
“Twenty-four hours in a day is just never enough for all the things you want to do,” Sorenstam said to SB Nation.
“That’s the hardest part.”
During Thursday’s first round at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, Sorenstam played alongside current World No. 1 Nelly Korda, who won seven times during the 2024 season. In many ways, Korda dominated like Sorenstam during her heyday. Yet they have different styles. Korda can hit the ball a mile, while Sorenstam relied on her finesse and accuracy. However, they both understand — and have experienced — the great responsibility of carrying the torch of the LPGA as the top-ranked player.
“I remember feeling very stressed,” Sorenstam admitted.
“I was trying to please everybody. You try to do your best. I thought that was a little hard, and then you start learning a few tricks — maybe this is how I should do it. Then, you have to focus on media on certain days, for example. And then certain days are for practice, and others, you’re out on the golf course. You eventually learn what is for the best so that you can perform, and then you are able to manage your time.”
Nobody knows how to conduct themselves when you reach the sport’s apex. Like everything else in human nature, you learn on the fly, whether it’s parenting, working a particular job, or going to school. You come to understand the best approach through trial and error, learning what works and what does not. That’s life.
Yet, Sorenstam feels that Korda does not need much advice from her.
“She has a good team around her. But in general, when you’re the face of the game, there are always expectations. People look up to you, whether it’s a good day or a bad day, and people really don’t see the circumstances,” Sorenstam said of Korda.
“The better you play, people expect more out of you, so it’s harder. You have to manage your time because people are pulling you left and right. How do you stay focused on what you’re working on? How do you keep your future goals and have a plan without getting distracted? She’s a hard worker, and I’m sure she has more things she wants to achieve, so how do you stay on that path and still be able to have the obligations and keep those commitments that she has from sponsors, tours, and friends? It’s hard.”
Jack Milko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. Follow him on X @jack_milko.
