At just 19 years old, Norfolk golfer Nellie Ong is set to live every young player's dream—teeing it up alongside the world's best at the US Women's Open in Los Angeles next month. And she can barely contain her excitement.
"Nelly Korda is on fire—even seeing her on the range or just in the same area as me will be pretty cool," Ong said, her enthusiasm palpable as she prepares for the biggest stage of her budding career.
The Hingham native earned her spot in the major championship by finishing second in a 78-player final qualifying event, carding a steady 36-hole level-par score of 144. Now, she's set to compete at the iconic Riviera Country Club course starting June 4.
"I'm just trying to comprehend that I'm actually playing in a major, which is pretty amazing," Ong told BBC Radio Norfolk. "I still haven't really got my head around it, but it means so much to me. There's about 150 players competing from around the world, and probably only six or seven English players."
Ong's journey to this moment has been a steady climb. She was selected for the East regional squad at just 13 years old and now studies at Ohio State, competing on the US university golf circuit. The experience has sharpened her game and her confidence.
While she's never played Riviera—a course stretching more than 7,000 yards that will also host the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics—Ong is ready for the challenge. "They haven't sent out the yardages yet, so I'm not entirely sure how long it will play, but I've looked at pictures," she said. "Usually about a week or so before, a course strategist sends me all the details. It looks amazing. I'm sure it's going to be very, very challenging—it's a US Open, renowned for being the toughest test of golf. It's going to be a lot of fun."
Though new to major championships, Ong isn't going in without a support system. She's been leaning on world number 10 Lottie Woad, a familiar face from past foursomes matches. "I know her pretty well, so I've been hassling and messaging her a lot. When do I get there? What do I do for practice rounds? I've just been asking all sorts of questions," Ong laughed. "I'm probably doing her head in, but she's been amazing."
For a teenager on the cusp of competing with golf's elite, the nerves are real—but so is the thrill. Whether she's soaking in the atmosphere on the range or stepping up to the first tee, Nellie Ong is ready to make her mark. And we'll be cheering her on every step of the way.