The Secret to Korda’s Fluid Motion

Following her 18th LPGA Tour triumph at the 2026 Riviera Maya Open, professional golfer Nelly Korda appeared on the Pat McAfee Show. While the discussion covered her recent major victory and her impressive career trajectory, the most intriguing moment occurred when Korda discussed the technical evolution of her swing.


The Role of Coaching and Parental Guidance

When asked how her game has transformed over the years, Korda was quick to credit her swing coach, David Whelan, for his instrumental work in refining her technique. However, she also highlighted the foundational influence of her parents. According to Korda, a specific, simple cue from her father helped her cultivate a smooth tempo that has remained consistent throughout her professional life.


“My parents spent so many hours with me just working on tempo,” Korda shared. “That is the one thing they ingrained into my brain. My dad always referred to it as ‘coca-cola…’”

Understanding the 'Coca-Cola' Mantra

This childhood rhythm technique evolved into the core philosophy of Korda’s swing. The “coca-cola” mantra serves as a mental tool to ensure she never rushes her movements. By focusing on a steady, two-beat cadence, she maintains the proper sequencing required for a graceful, effective swing. As Korda noted, “It was super simple but it was the key to having a very fluid swing.”


How to Improve Your Own Tempo

For golfers looking to emulate this fluidity, Korda suggests a practical approach:

  • Start slowly: Begin with practice swings at half speed, prioritizing rhythm over complex mechanics.
  • Gradual progression: Once the rhythm feels instinctive, slowly increase your swing speed while keeping the same cadence.
  • Monitor the transition: Use the transition phase as your primary checkpoint. If your movement feels hurried or jagged during the downswing, your tempo needs adjustment.

Ultimately, a high-quality golf swing relies on maintaining smoothness throughout the change of direction, a lesson Korda proves effective with every tournament win.