Nelly Korda’s Bold Rejection of Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck Deal Stuns the Golf World

In a jaw-dropping turn of events, golf superstar Nelly Korda has made headlines by turning down a lucrative offer from billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk to promote the Tesla Cybertruck on her competition attire during LPGA Tour events. The World No. 1 women’s golfer, known for her dominance on the course and her growing influence off it, delivered a pointed and incisive reason for her refusal, reportedly leaving Musk—a figure rarely caught off guard—speechless. This bold move has sparked widespread discussion, further cementing Korda’s reputation as a principled athlete unafraid to stand her ground.

Korda, who has captivated the golfing world with her record-breaking 2024 season, including seven LPGA Tour victories and a historic five consecutive wins, is no stranger to high-profile endorsements. With a social media following of 1.1 million on Instagram and a recent appearance in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, her marketability is undeniable. Musk, the CEO of Tesla and a prominent figure on X, reportedly approached Korda with a deal to feature the Cybertruck’s branding on her golf attire, a move that would have aligned the futuristic vehicle with one of sport’s brightest stars. The offer, rumored to be worth millions, was seen as a strategic play to boost Tesla’s visibility in the sports world.

However, Korda’s rejection of the deal has stolen the spotlight. While the exact wording of her response remains undisclosed, sources describe it as a razor-sharp explanation that cut through Musk’s typically unshakable demeanor. Speculation suggests Korda’s reasoning may have centered on her commitment to maintaining authenticity in her brand partnerships or her reluctance to align with a polarizing figure like Musk. Given her history of selective endorsements—partnering with brands like Nike and TaylorMade that resonate with her athletic identity—Korda may have felt the Cybertruck’s bold aesthetic clashed with her personal style or values.

The decision has ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, particularly on X, where fans and commentators have praised Korda’s integrity while others debate the implications of rejecting such a high-profile deal. Hashtags like #NellySaysNo and #KordaVsMusk have trended, reflecting the public’s fascination with the clash between two titans in their respective fields. Some fans speculate that Korda’s response may have included a witty jab, given her playful social media presence, such as her recent trolling of Keegan Bradley’s TGL outfit, which she likened to Mario Bros.’ Luigi. Others believe her reasoning could reflect deeper concerns, possibly tied to Tesla’s environmental claims or Musk’s controversial public persona.

This rejection comes at a pivotal moment for Korda, who is preparing for the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills, where she aims to build on her stellar career. Her decision to prioritize her principles over a potentially lucrative deal underscores the strength of her personal brand, which blends athletic excellence with relatability. From sharing her love for cooking and Legos to heartfelt posts about her late pet cat Rafi, Korda has cultivated a loyal fanbase that values her authenticity.

For Elon Musk, the snub is a rare setback in his efforts to expand Tesla’s cultural reach. While the Cybertruck has garnered attention for its futuristic design, Korda’s refusal highlights the challenges of aligning with athletes who prioritize their image. As Korda continues to dominate golf and Musk pushes Tesla’s boundaries, this clash of worlds will remain a talking point, with Korda’s sharp-witted response echoing as a defining moment in her off-course legacy.