Lydia Ko’s Biography, Nationality, Age, Properties, Weight, Height, Records, Lifestyle, and Hobbies
Biography
Lydia Ko, born Bo-Gyung Ko, is a professional golfer who has made a significant impact on the sport from a very young age. Born in Seoul, South Korea, she moved to New Zealand with her family when she was four years old. It was in New Zealand that her golfing journey truly began.
Early Life and Introduction to Golf
Lydia Ko’s introduction to golf came at the age of five when her mother took her to a driving range. Her natural talent was evident from the start, and she quickly progressed through the ranks of junior golf in New Zealand. By the age of seven, she was also already competing in national tournaments.
Amateur Career
Ko’s amateur career was nothing short of spectacular. She won the New Zealand Women’s Amateur Stroke Play Championship in 2011 and 2012, and the New Zealand Women’s Amateur Match Play Championship in 2011. Her success on the amateur circuit earned her a spot in the 2012 U.S. Women’s Open, where she made the cut and finished as the low amateur.
In 2012, at the age of 15, Ko won the CN Canadian Women’s Open, becoming the youngest player to win an LPGA Tour event. She successfully defended her title in 2013, further cementing her status as a rising star in the golf world.
Turning Professional
Lydia Ko turned professional in October 2013 at the age of 16. Her transition to the professional ranks was seamless, and she quickly also made her mark on the LPGA Tour. In 2014, she won three tournaments, including the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship, and was named the LPGA Rookie of the Year.
Achieving World No. 1
On February 2, 2015, Lydia Ko became the youngest player, male or female, to reach the number one ranking in professional golf at the age of 17 years, 9 months, and 9 days. This achievement highlighted her exceptional talent and consistency on the tour.
Major Championships and Continued Success
Ko’s first major championship victory came at the 2015 Evian Championship, where she became the youngest major winner in LPGA history. She followed this up with a win at the 2016 ANA Inspiration, further solidifying her place among the elite golfers in the world.
In 2024, Ko added another major title to her resume by winning the Chevron Championship. Her ability to perform at the highest level in major tournaments has been a hallmark of her career.
Olympic Success
Lydia Ko has also represented New Zealand with distinction at the Olympics. She won a silver medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, showcasing her ability to compete on the biggest stages in sports.
Nationality
Lydia Ko was born in Seoul, South Korea, but she moved to New Zealand with her family when she was four years old. She became a New Zealand citizen at the age of 12 and also represents New Zealand in international competitions.
Age
As of now, Lydia Ko is 27 years old.
Properties
Lydia Ko owns properties in both New Zealand and the United States. She resides in Orlando, Florida, where she has a home that provides her with a base for her training and participation in the LPGA Tour.
Weight
Lydia Ko weighs approximately 51 kg (112.5 lbs)1.
Height
Lydia Ko stands at 1.65 meters (5 feet 5 inches) tall1.
Records
- Youngest Player to Win an LPGA Tour Event: Lydia Ko won the Canadian Women’s Open in 2012 at the age of 15, making her the youngest winner of an LPGA Tour event2.
- Also Youngest Player to Reach World No. 1: She became the youngest player to reach the number one ranking in professional golf at 17 years, 9 months, and 9 days2.
- Major Championships: Ko has won three major championships. Also including the Evian Championship (2015), ANA Inspiration (2016), and the Chevron Championship (2024)2.
- Olympic Medals: She won a silver medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics2.
Lifestyle
Lydia Ko leads a disciplined lifestyle focused on maintaining peak physical and mental condition for her sport. She balances her rigorous training schedule with time for relaxation and hobbies. Ko is known for her humility and dedication to her craft, often crediting her family and coaches for her success.
Hobbies
- Fitness: Lydia Ko enjoys various fitness activities, including dance workouts, which help her stay in shape and improve her flexibility1.
- Reading: She is an avid reader and often shares her favorite books with her followers.
- Also Cooking: Ko enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes in her free time.
- Traveling: As a professional golfer, she travels extensively and enjoys exploring new places and cultures.