Walk & Talk with Lydia Ko

Lydia is renowned for her poise both on and off the course. The embodiment of confidence, grace, and quiet power, she has assuredly built up an impressive career and reputation by bringing resilience, focus, and courage to every step of her journey.

Born in Seoul and raised in New Zealand, Lydia reached No. 1 in the world rankings at just 17, the youngest player ever to do so. No stranger to accolades, she is a multiple Olympic medalist, a regular contender on the LPGA Tour and has over 20 professional wins, including multiple major championships, under her belt. A trailblazer for young women in sport, Lydia’s determination, strength, and purpose are just as important as the trophies and medals.

Ko’s long-term role as an ECCO ambassador continually evolves and Women’s Golf Magazine is always happy to support (fan girl alert) her phenomenal career.

Photo: Lydia Ko at the Amundi Evian Championship

You live a globetrotting life. Where or what do you consider home?

I feel most at home with my husband. Wherever we are together is where I’d consider home.

What are you most proud of? 

I am most proud of overcoming my own doubts and adversity. That was what I felt as I was walking down the last hole of the 2024 Olympics. 

What do you look for in a pair of shoes, both on and off the course?

Being comfortable yet maintaining style is the key for me. The common thing is just wanting to be comfortable, even when wearing shoes for a long period of time.

Why does ECCO resonate with you as a brand?

I love that it ticks all the boxes. ECCO shoes are known for their high-quality leather, while also delivering comfort and performance. These are all the things I look for, so it’s great to be part of a brand I believe in.

How was the experience of shooting the ECCO campaign?

I loved it! It took me a little bit out of my comfort zone, but I’ve come to enjoy fashion shoots a lot more!

Photo: Lydia Ko wearing ECCO shoes.

ECCO shoes are ‘MADE FOR EVERY STEP’. What have been some of the most important steps in the Lydia Ko story so far?

All the lows and highs have been integral parts of my journey and they have made me the player I am today.

How do you motivate yourself to keep on going?

I feel like there is no perfect score in golf – that is the beauty and challenge of the game. It will always be a constant grind to keep getting better.

Do you have any pre-tournament rituals?

Not really. I’m not that superstitious. I take it a day at a time and make sure I go through all my routines so that I can feel most confident when I’m playing.

Lots of people play golf in their downtime. Since you do it professionally, what does your ideal day off look like?

I used to think that golf was all work, but ever since meeting my husband, he has shown me that golf can be more fun. I love it when we go out and play on the weekend and our dog Kai is with us in the cart.

You’ve already achieved so much: what’s next?

I would love to win the career grand slam and match my age to the number of total wins on tour.

Which courses do you like to play when visiting New Zealand?

I enjoy playing the courses in Queenstown, especially Millbrook, as it’s just so peaceful out there with the mountains. Tara Iti is also always a treat whenever I get the chance to play there, too.

Speaking of NZ. You were made a dame for services in golf. And, at 28 years old, you are the youngest modern-era dame or knight. How does that make you feel? 

Representing New Zealand in the Olympics was one of the biggest highlights of my career and to become a dame and get recognized for my career is something I am very proud and grateful for.

If you could only take 5 golf clubs to play a round. Which ones are going in the bag?

Driver, lob wedge, putter, 5-iron and 8-iron.

You're playing at the International Crown in October. What aspect of team events do you most enjoy?

I have always loved being in a team environment and supporting my teammates. I’ve never been on a team with any of my teammates for an International Crown, so I’m excited to make fun memories together and give a good run at it.

Golf courses demand practicality, but off the course, what’s your go-to fashion look by ECCO that makes you feel most confident?

Being comfortable yet maintaining style is the key for me. The common thing is just wanting to be comfortable, even when wearing shoes for a long period of time. For the campaign, I was wearing the ECCO METROPOLE OSLO loafers.

                                                                                                                          
               
Photo (Left): Lydia Ko on the cover of Women's Golf Magazine, Photos (Right): Lydio Ko for Vogue