An Open Letter from Lydia Ko to Tiger Woods, Fans, and the Entire Golf Community
Dear Tiger Woods, Fans, and the Golf Community,
As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself reflecting on my journey in golf, the lessons I’ve learned, and the people who have shaped my experiences. Today, I feel compelled to share my gratitude, admiration, and hope for the future with you all, especially you, Tiger, and the incredible fans and golfers who make this sport so special.
Tiger, you have been an inspiration to me and countless others. As a young player, I watched you dominate the course with a focus and determination that was unmatched. You redefined what it meant to be a professional golfer, and your influence extends far beyond your record-breaking achievements. You taught us all that with relentless work, an unwavering belief in yourself, and the courage to overcome adversity, anything is possible. Your journey, both on and off the course, has been a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. You’ve faced setbacks, injuries, and challenges that most would consider insurmountable, but you’ve come back time and time again with a renewed commitment to your craft.
For me, personally, your comeback story has been one of the most powerful lessons I could ever learn. You’ve shown us that it’s not the number of times we fall that defines us, but rather our ability to rise, to keep fighting for what we love, and to find strength in the toughest of moments. I’ve often thought about how you’ve persevered in the face of so many challenges, and it has given me the courage to keep pushing through my own. Your career has left an indelible mark on the sport, and you continue to inspire golfers, athletes, and fans around the world.
To the fans, your support is the backbone of golf. The energy you bring to tournaments, your unwavering passion for the game, and your respect for the players are what make this sport so unique. I can’t express enough how much it means to me as a golfer to have such a strong, supportive fan base behind me. You make us feel seen and heard, and that kind of connection is something that transcends the fairways and greens. You inspire us to be better, to push ourselves further, and to embrace the challenge of every round we play. Thank you for your continued enthusiasm and for always cheering us on, no matter the result.
To the entire golf community—players, coaches, fans, and supporters—thank you for creating a space where we can challenge ourselves, grow, and learn. Golf has a unique ability to bring people together, and the camaraderie among players, both on and off the course, is something I cherish deeply. I’ve learned so much from the many talented individuals I’ve had the privilege of competing with, and I hope to continue learning and growing alongside each of you. It’s because of the collective energy, wisdom, and kindness that the golf community shares that we continue to move the sport forward, creating new opportunities for future generations.
As I look ahead to my career, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for what’s to come. While I know the journey ahead won’t always be easy, I am ready to take on the challenges that await. I draw strength from the knowledge that I am part of a community that supports me, and I will continue to give my all for this game that I love so much. Tiger, I hope to follow in your footsteps, to carry forward the lessons you’ve taught us, and to honor the legacy you’ve built.
In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you, Tiger, for being a constant source of inspiration, and to the fans and the entire golf community for your unwavering support. Let’s continue to grow this great game together, pushing boundaries and making history.
With heartfelt thanks and respect,
Lydia Ko
