BRADENTON, FL — In a year defined by historic dominance on the green, world number one golfer Nelly Korda has secured a different kind of victory. The Olympic gold medalist recently announced her engagement to longtime partner Andreas Gunderson, revealing a proposal that was as deeply personal as it was “old school.”
The engagement took place against the serene backdrop of a Florida beach, where Gunderson, a former college football standout, dropped to one knee. While the setting was picture-perfect, it was the preparation leading up to the moment that truly captured Korda’s heart. In a recent reflection on the milestone, Korda praised her new fiancé’s traditional approach, noting a “sweet old school gesture” that preceded the big question.
A Foundation Built on History
While many high-profile athlete romances bloom under the bright lights of professional circuits, Korda and Gunderson’s story is rooted in the quiet suburbs of their youth. The pair attended the same high school in Florida, maintaining a connection that spanned years before it ever turned romantic.
The spark was reignited when Gunderson, after finishing his collegiate football career, returned to their shared home state. What began as a long-standing friendship quickly evolved into a steadfast partnership. For a global superstar like Korda, whose schedule involves grueling international travel and high-pressure tournaments, Gunderson has reportedly been a grounding force.
“He knows what he’s doing,” Korda remarked with a smile when discussing the proposal. Her comment alluded to Gunderson’s attention to detail and his respect for tradition—specifically, reports suggest he sought the blessing of her family before asking for her hand. In an era of viral, over-the-top proposals, the simplicity and sincerity of Gunderson’s approach stood out.
The Power Couple’s Next Chapter
The news comes at a time when Korda is at the absolute zenith of her professional career. Her 2024 season has been nothing short of legendary, marked by a record-tying streak of victories that solidified her status as the face of the LPGA. However, this personal milestone offers a rare glimpse into the private life of the notoriously focused athlete.
Gunderson is no stranger to the demands of elite athletics. Having played at the collegiate level, he understands the discipline and mental fortitude required to stay at the top. This shared understanding of the “athlete’s life” has likely contributed to the strength of their bond, allowing Gunderson to support Korda through the highs of Major championships and the lows of injury recovery.
Looking Ahead
As the golf world celebrates the news, fans are eager to see if this new chapter will bring even more stability to Korda’s game. For now, the couple is enjoying the “fiancé” phase of their relationship, surrounded by a family of athletes—including Nelly’s sister Jessica and brother Sebastian—who are surely welcoming Gunderson into the fold with open arms.
The beachside proposal wasn’t just a question; it was the culmination of a decade-long journey from high school classmates to life partners. By honoring the “old school” traditions of courtship, Gunderson proved that even in the fast-paced world of professional sports, some things are still worth doing the classic way.