Quick Read
- Caitlin Clark congratulated Nelly Korda on her engagement with a heartfelt message, highlighting their close friendship.
- Clark and Korda have been paired in several golf pro-am events, strengthening their bond through shared experiences.
- Their friendship is seen as a symbol of rising cross-sport collaboration and support among elite female athletes.
- Korda has publicly praised Clark’s impact on women’s sports, and Clark often references Korda as a role model.
- The engagement announcement drew reactions from stars across sports, reflecting the broad influence of both women.
Caitlin Clark’s Heartfelt Message: More Than Just Congratulations
On Friday, as Nelly Korda—world No.2 golfer and two-time major champion—announced her engagement to Casey Gunderson, the sports world paused for celebration. Among the thousands of well-wishers was Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star who has become one of the most recognizable faces in American sports over the past two years. Clark’s simple, yet sincere “Congrats!!!” stood out in a sea of celebrity reactions, including messages from LeBron James and fellow LPGA stars. But there’s more beneath this public congratulation than meets the eye.
A Friendship Forged on the Course
Clark and Korda’s relationship goes beyond casual Instagram exchanges. Their friendship was built through shared experiences on golf courses, notably at pro-am tournaments like the LPGA’s ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge, where they were paired together as recently as this month. The chemistry between them—easygoing, playfully competitive, and mutually supportive—quickly became a highlight for fans, with viral clips circulating during tournament week. Their camaraderie didn’t just entertain; it offered a glimpse into how elite female athletes support one another across disciplines.
Korda’s respect for Clark is well documented. She has publicly praised Clark’s impact on women’s sports, noting how the WNBA star’s rise has fueled interest across all women’s leagues, including the LPGA. Clark reciprocates, frequently referencing Korda as both a role model and a friend. This mutual admiration isn’t just for show; it’s reflected in their actions and public statements, and it’s resonated with fans who crave authenticity in athlete relationships.
Cross-Sport Support: A New Era for Women’s Athletics
What makes Clark and Korda’s bond remarkable isn’t just its genuineness—it’s how it symbolizes a broader movement in women’s sports. As Clark’s celebrity has soared, she’s woven herself into the fabric of multiple athletic communities, connecting with stars in football, baseball, tennis, and, of course, golf. These relationships aren’t merely networking opportunities; they represent a shift toward collaborative, uplifting narratives that transcend individual leagues.
Korda’s engagement announcement was more than a personal milestone—it became a moment that united athletes across sports. Photos from the event, like the couple smiling beneath a “In this life… & the next” banner and holding a playful mock newspaper titled “The Engagement,” were met with genuine excitement from the sports community. Clark’s message nestled among those from high-profile names, reaffirming the interconnectedness of today’s athletic landscape.
Why This Matters: Women Athletes Leading the Way
Historically, cross-sport friendships have been reserved for long-established icons. But Clark, despite being early in her WNBA career, has already earned a place in this orbit. Her ability to connect, support, and celebrate the successes of peers like Korda underscores a cultural shift in how female athletes interact and are perceived.
The importance of these bonds can’t be understated. They foster a spirit of collaboration rather than competition, helping to raise the profile of women’s sports collectively. As Korda steps into a new chapter in her personal life, and as Clark continues to break barriers in professional basketball, their friendship stands as a testament to what can be achieved when women athletes champion each other’s journeys.
For fans, these stories are more than feel-good moments—they’re evidence of the growing momentum behind women’s sports. Two generational talents, each at the peak of her field, sharing respect and encouragement, remind us that progress is often driven by unity, not just individual achievement.
Clark and Korda’s authentic friendship is emblematic of the collaborative spirit reshaping women’s athletics in 2025. By openly supporting each other, they set a powerful example for the next generation, proving that genuine connections off the field can drive real change within it.