Mastering the Tempo
Following her impressive 18th LPGA Tour victory at the 2026 Riviera Maya Open, professional golfer Nelly Korda appeared on the Pat McAfee Show. While she touched upon her recent major win and the progression of her game, the highlight of the interview was her explanation of how she maintains her signature smooth swing.
The Influence of Mentorship
Korda highlighted that her current swing performance is a result of long-term guidance. She credited her coach, David Whelan, for his technical input, while noting that the foundation of her rhythm was established early on by her parents. According to Korda, the most vital lesson she learned was the importance of tempo.
«[My parents] spent so many hours with me just working on tempo, that is the one thing they ingrained into my brain. My dad always referred to it as “coca-cola…”»
Translating the Mantra to the Course
The “coca-cola” phrase acts as a mental anchor rather than a strict mechanical rule. By adopting this two-beat cadence, Korda prevents herself from rushing, ensuring a consistent and fluid sequence throughout her motion. She emphasizes that this simple mental cue has been the secret to maintaining composure and fluidity on the course.
Tips for Improving Your Own Tempo
If you are looking to replicate Korda's smooth rhythm in your own game, consider these steps:
- Start Slow: Begin with half-speed practice swings, focusing entirely on rhythm rather than mechanical complexity.
- Build Gradually: Once the rhythm feels natural, slowly increase your swing speed while ensuring the tempo remains consistent.
- Monitor the Transition: Use the change of direction at the top of your swing as a checkpoint. If the movement feels jerky or hurried, your tempo is likely out of sync.
By prioritizing a smooth transition, you can develop a more controlled and effective swing, just like the LPGA champion.