‘[My Parents] Have Said Things That Upset Me’: Lydia Ko Finally Opens Up on Her Harshly Scrutinized Upbringing
‘[My Parents] Have Said Things That Upset Me’: Lydia Ko Finally Opens Up on Her Harshly Scrutinized Upbringing
Lydia Ko, a name synonymous with golfing excellence, has a story that goes beyond mere talent. Her ascent to becoming a 21-time LPGA Tour winner is deeply intertwined with the influence of her parents, Ko Gil-Hong and Hyeon Bong-Sook. While many athletes credit their success to hard work and dedication, Ko’s journey is a testament to the complex relationship between parental ambition and a child’s aspirations.
Ko’s upbringing was not without its challenges. Like Earl Woods with Tiger, her parents took a hands-on approach, fostering an environment where excellence was expected. This dynamic became a focal point of discussion when former coach David Leadbetter noted the intrusive nature of Ko’s parents in her life. In a 2016 interview, he remarked on their significant involvement, saying, “They tell her when to go to bed, what to eat, what to wear, when to practice and what to practice.”
For many, this level of control could seem excessive, but for Ko, it was a blend of love and guidance. Reflecting on her childhood, she admitted that while there were hurtful moments—like her mother’s insistence to “go do that”—she now appreciates these experiences as stepping stones to her current success. “Sometimes they’ve said things that upset me, but it’s out of love,” Ko shared in a recent interview. “Now that I’m older, I understand better.”
The narrative surrounding Ko’s parents often overlooks the sacrifices they made to support her dreams. As Ko began breaking records on the global stage, it was her mother’s unwavering commitment that stood out. During a pivotal 2018 season, Ko reflected on her mother’s efforts in an interview with CNN, highlighting her role as a “huge inspiration.”
In her amateur days, her mother went to great lengths to ensure Ko had every opportunity. From driving her to competitions across New Zealand to navigating the complexities of travel in the U.S. without modern GPS, Hyeon Bong-Sook’s dedication was remarkable. Ko recalled, “She pretty much devoted her life to me… she printed out sheets with road maps and directions to places that could be four to five hours away.”
Despite the scrutiny her parents faced, Ko’s perspective has evolved. The criticisms directed at her parents for their unconventional methods often fail to recognize the depth of their intentions. Ko has come to see their strictness as a manifestation of their desire for her to succeed. “I’m here because of them,” she stated, acknowledging that her achievements are a result of their unyielding support.
At 27, Ko embraces her past, recognizing both the pain and the lessons learned. While some moments were undoubtedly difficult, they contributed to her resilience and understanding of what it means to strive for greatness.
As Ko continues her professional journey, she carries the weight of her upbringing with her, but she is also ready to forge her own path. With dreams of starting her own family, she reflects on the sacrifices made for her success and contemplates the balance she wishes to strike as a future parent.
“I could not do as much as my mother has done for me,” she admitted, underscoring the respect and admiration she holds for her mother’s sacrifices.
Lydia Ko’s story is not just one of athletic prowess but a rich tapestry woven from love, sacrifice, and unwavering ambition. Her journey reflects the complexities of parental influence in sports and serves as a reminder that behind every champion is a story of support and sacrifice that often goes untold. As Ko looks to the future, her experiences will undoubtedly shape the next generation—whether in her family or through her ongoing impact on the sport.
