In a shocking turn of events that has set the sports and business worlds abuzz, golf superstar Nelly Korda has made headlines by rejecting a staggering $10 million offer from none other than Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX. Korda’s bold declaration—“Money can’t buy me!”—has not only stunned the media but also sparked a wave of admiration for her principles, while Musk’s unexpected reaction has added fuel to an already blazing story. This unprecedented moment unfolded on May 14, 2025, and has quickly become one of the most talked-about events in recent sports history.
Nelly Korda, the 26-year-old American golf prodigy, has long been celebrated for her dominance on the LPGA Tour. With 14 career wins, including two major championships, and a record-breaking 2024 season where she clinched six titles, Korda has solidified her place as one of golf’s brightest stars. Off the course, she’s known for her integrity, humility, and commitment to causes like women’s empowerment and youth sports. So, when news broke that she turned down a $10 million deal from Elon Musk—a figure that would dwarf most endorsement contracts in women’s golf—the sports world was left reeling.
The offer, according to sources close to the situation, was tied to Musk’s latest venture: a high-profile sports technology initiative under his Neuralink brand. Musk reportedly sought Korda as the face of a new campaign promoting wearable tech designed to enhance athletic performance through neural data analysis. The deal included a $10 million upfront payment, along with potential bonuses and equity stakes in the project. For an athlete in a sport where sponsorships are often modest compared to other industries, the proposal was nothing short of monumental. Yet, Korda’s response was swift and unequivocal: “Money can’t buy me.”
Korda elaborated on her decision during a press conference in Florida, where she was preparing for the upcoming CME Group Tour Championship. “I’ve always played golf for the love of the game, not for the paycheck,” she said, her voice steady but resolute. “When I looked at the offer, it didn’t align with my values. I’m not here to be a billboard for something I don’t fully believe in, no matter how much money is on the table.” Her stance, rooted in authenticity and independence, has been hailed as a rare display of principle in an era where athletes often face pressure to maximize earnings through endorsements.
The media frenzy that followed was instantaneous. Outlets like ESPN and The New York Times ran headlines praising Korda’s integrity, while social media platforms like X erupted with reactions. Fans lauded her as a role model, with one user posting, “Nelly Korda just proved you don’t have to sell your soul for success. Respect!” Others speculated on the implications for women’s sports, noting that her decision could inspire other athletes to prioritize values over financial gain. However, some critics questioned whether rejecting such a lucrative deal was a missed opportunity to elevate her global profile and secure her financial future.
What truly escalated the story, however, was Elon Musk’s reaction. Known for his unpredictable responses, Musk took to X just hours after Korda’s announcement, posting a cryptic message: “Principles over profit? I respect that. Let’s see how far it takes her. 🧠” The tweet, which garnered over 500,000 likes within hours, was accompanied by a brain emoji—a nod to Neuralink’s focus on neural technology. Insiders suggest that Musk, while initially taken aback by Korda’s rejection, was genuinely intrigued by her resolve. Sources claim he has since reached out to her team, not with another offer, but with an invitation to discuss her perspective on sports tech innovation, hinting at a potential collaboration on her terms.
This saga has sparked broader conversations about the intersection of sports, technology, and ethics. Korda’s decision underscores a growing trend among athletes who are increasingly selective about the brands they endorse, especially in the wake of controversies surrounding athlete sponsorships. Her stand also highlights the unique challenges faced by women in sports, who often receive fewer endorsement opportunities than their male counterparts and may feel pressured to accept high-profile deals.
As the dust settles, Nelly Korda remains focused on her game, preparing to defend her title at the CME Group Tour Championship. Her rejection of Musk’s $10 million offer has not only amplified her reputation as a principled athlete but also positioned her as a beacon of authenticity in a commercialized world. Meanwhile, Musk’s unexpected response has left the door open for a future dialogue, proving that even in the face of rejection, innovation and integrity can find common ground. For now, Korda’s bold declaration—“Money can’t buy me!”—continues to resonate, inspiring a new generation of athletes to play by their own rules.
