Yani Ko dismisses likelihood of surpassing Annika Sorenstam.

Lydia Ko is poised to make history at the U.S. Women's Open on June 2, potentially surpassing Annika Sorenstam's earnings record. Yet Ko herself downplays the significance of such a milestone in women's golf.

Currently, golf is being played in a distinct era, according to Yani Ko, who spoke candidly with media members on Tuesday at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, ahead of the 2023 Open.

Yani Ko acknowledges the challenge of surpassing Annika Sorenstam's record, noting that comparing their eras is difficult due to significant differences in prize purses.

Yani Ko trails Annika Sorenstam in earnings by $0.7 million, with a total of $21.8 million to Sorenstam's $22.5 million. Meanwhile, Ko boasts an impressive 23 LPGA Tour victories, whereas Sorenstam accumulated 72 wins between 1995 and 2008.

Yani Ko places greater significance on her win count, which currently stands at three major titles. The increased prize money is undoubtedly appreciated, but it doesn't overshadow the importance of her victories. Comparing herself to Annika Sorenstam, Ko feels like an underdog, with Sorenstam being the dominant force in their respective field, much like a giant insect looming over a small ant.

Comparing the two situations is challenging due to the significantly increased stakes in modern golf tournaments. It's possible that future generations will compete for even greater rewards.

The Riviera Country Club will serve as the venue for both men's and women's golf events during the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. New Zealand's Yani Ko has accumulated a notable Olympic record, securing gold at Paris 2024, silver at Rio 2016, and bronze medals at Tokyo 2021 (originally scheduled for 2020).

Yani Ko rules out a future tournament appearance.

Competing as part of a mixed team is what truly gets me pumped up. Team play is my favorite aspect of golf, and I'm thrilled to see the addition of this component. It's something I would have loved to be a part of myself, but unfortunately, it's not an opportunity that's available to me right now. However who knows what the future holds? Maybe I'll find myself in a different role or capacity where I can contribute to the team. As it stands, I'm proud to represent New Zealand at the Olympics and hope to be involved with the mixed team in some way. After three Olympics, I've had my fill of that level of competition and its associated stress.