Amid Lydia Ko’s 28th Birthday, 5 Unforgettable Moments from Her Career Explored

“Lydia has always been like that,” Zhang said after Lydia Ko won the 2024 Paris Olympics. “She’s always such a people person. I feel like maybe today she enjoyed it a lot more. She really just took it all in and hit some incredible shots just throughout the day.” Zhang’s words beautifully capture Ko’s joyful spirit, showcasing her as a happy soul who truly savors the moments that matter. Ko is turning 28 this year, having dedicated 23 years to golf since starting at age 5.

Introduced to golf by her mother at Pupuke Golf Club, Ko’s talent flourished under Guy Wilson’s coaching. As she marks another year, we dive into the highlights that have defined her remarkable journey. From record-shattering victories to clutch performances on the biggest stages, her career has been a testament to her dedication and passion for the sport. Here are 5 unforgettable moments of her career explored.

1. Becoming the youngest LPGA Tour winner as an amateur

Lydia Ko made history as the youngest LPGA Tour winner as an amateur, claiming the 2012 CN Canadian Women’s Open title. At just 15 years and 8 months old, but 14 when she played, Ko’s impressive performance marked a significant milestone in her career, winning by one stroke with a score of 275 (13 under par). Ko was still an amateur when she won, so she couldn’t pocket the $300,000 winner’s check.

Before making waves in Canada, Lydia Ko had already shattered records Down Under—winning the New South Wales Open at just 14! That jaw-dropping feat made her the youngest player ever to win a professional golf tour event, proving early on she was a once-in-a-generation talent. Ko’s early victories served as a testament to her dedication and skill, paving the way for her future success in the sport.

2. Winning the CN Canadian Women’s Open again as an amateur

Lydia Ko’s dominance on the LPGA Tour as an amateur was truly awe-inspiring. She defended her title at the CN Canadian Women’s Open in 2013, becoming the only amateur to win multiple times on the tour. This back-to-back victory showcased her exceptional skill and consistency, leaving a lasting impression on the golf world. Ko’s amateur career was filled with impressive performances, including a remarkable streak of making the cut in all 15 of her LPGA starts. Her crowning achievement as an amateur was holding the No. 1 spot in the world for a record 130 consecutive weeks.

3. Reaching World No. 1 at a young age

Then, at just 17 years old, Lydia Ko became the youngest World No. 1 in golf history, surpassing Tiger Woods’ record after a runner-up finish at the 2015 Coates Golf Championship. This milestone marked a remarkable achievement in her career. Ko has now ascended to the top spot three times, with her most recent return to No. 1 coming after a nearly five-year gap – the longest period between No. 1 rankings in golf history. Expressing her gratitude, Ko said, “I’m very grateful to be World No. 1 again. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I’d ever be back here again… This wouldn’t have been possible without my family and team, thank you for your belief and love.”

4. Lydia Ko’s major championship wins

Lydia Ko has proven herself as a major force in women’s golf, winning three major championships. She made history at the 2015 Evian Championship, becoming the youngest female major winner at just 18 years, 4 months, and 20 days. In the final round, Lydia Ko dazzled with a flawless 8-under 63, setting a major championship record. Her 16-under 268, six strokes clear of Lexi Thompson, featured eight birdies, a masterclass in composure.

Ko continued her dominance with her second major win at the 2016 ANA Inspiration, setting another record as the youngest to win two majors. After a successful run, she returned to the top with her third major title at the 2024 AIG Women’s Open, solidifying her position as one of the greatest golfers of her generation.

5. Lydia Ko’s Olympic medal collection is complete

Lydia Ko has finally achieved Olympic glory, completing her medal collection with a stunning gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics. After securing silver in Rio 2016 and bronze in Tokyo 2020, Ko sealed her legacy with a dramatic two-shot victory at Le Golf National. With her career total now standing at 27 points, this win also secures her place in the prestigious LPGA Hall of Fame. Ko’s perseverance paid off as she built a strong lead on the back nine, withstood the pressure, and sealed the win with a clutch 7-foot birdie putt. The gold medal was the perfect addition to her collection, and one that will be cherished forever.

Lydia Ko’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary, from her groundbreaking win as the youngest LPGA Tour winner to becoming the youngest major champion in history. With a flawless blend of skill, composure, and determination, she has consistently set new benchmarks in women’s golf, cementing her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

So, what are your favorite Ko-moments? Let us know in the comment section below!

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