‘Mini Tiger.’ That was Lydia Ko’s earliest password as a kid—a nod to her idol, Tiger Woods, and a glimpse into the mindset of a golf-obsessed prodigy who seemed destined for greatness. It came fast for Lydia Ko—winning her first pro event at 15, becoming the youngest LPGA major champion at 18, and racking up 20+ wins by her mid-20s. Her 2025 performances have only strengthened that legacy with multiple victories (the LPGA Drive On Championship and the HSBC Women’s World Championship) and cemented her status as one of golf’s most consistent stars.

Her retirement announcement was also quick, like her success. Last year, following her Olympic gold medal, the golfer shared her plans to retire from professional golf before turning 30. It could be wise, because as stated, she couldn’t see herself playing beyond that age. Maybe it’s about personal growth? So, now, just one point shy of LPGA Hall of Fame induction, and in a rare moment of reflection, Ko is opening up about something deeper than trophies: balance, love, and the man who helped her find both.

Through all her success, Ko’s life took a different turn when she married billionaire Jun Chung in 2022. Known for his low-key lifestyle and grounded approach, Chung has played a pivotal role in helping Ko navigate the pressures of elite golf. And in a recent interview with Golf.com, Ko shared how much her husband has helped her grow, not just as a golfer, but as a person. Ko opened up about how she used to feel guilty for taking time off: “When we first started dating, I kind of felt bad because I was like, ‘Oh man, I see people on social media, posting them practicing, and I’m here with my boyfriend and, you know, we’re out at the beach.’” She admitted feeling torn between enjoying her personal life and focusing on her career, a conflict many athletes can relate to.

But with Jun’s support, Ko slowly came to a powerful realization. “I realized that there was more to life than just golf,” she said. “That’s what Kai proved to me. That’s what my husband has proven to me.” Kai, of course, is the couple’s dog, who has helped add balance to their lives, reminding Ko of the joy outside of competition.

In her GOLF interview, Ko continued to emphasize how Jun has made a profound impact on her. “Golf takes up a lot of time, and my identity is so connected to it,” she confessed. “Jun has made me realize I am more than just the golfer Lydia Ko.” He’s not only a calming force but also someone who shares her love for the game. In fact, Ko found a new side to her relationship with him, as they bonded over matches for push-ups or açai bowls.

Ko’s growing happiness off the course has been reflected in her recent stellar performances. In 2025, she is on a roll, proving that a champion can balance every area of life. Lydia Ko’s success is no longer just about breaking records—it’s about thriving in a life where golf is part of her identity, not the entirety of it. Thanks to Jun, she’s found the perfect blend of career and contentment. That balance will be crucial as she navigates a busy stretch of the LPGA calendar, with big events and major tests still ahead.

What’s next for ‘Mini Tiger’?

After a quiet showing at the 2025 Chevron Championship, where she finished T-52 at 5-over-par, Lydia Ko is far from winding down. In fact, she’s ramping up. Her next stop is the inaugural Black Desert Championship, running May 1–4 at Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah. It’s a fresh test on the LPGA calendar and a key opportunity for Ko to regain momentum.

But this is only the beginning of a packed spring. Ko is set to tee it up next week at the Mizuho Americas Open at Liberty National in New Jersey, followed by the Riviera Maya Open in Mexico, and then the big one: the U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills, May 29–June 1. It’s part of her full-season commitment that includes all five majors and the team-format Hanwha LIFEPLUS International Crown.

It’s clear that while Lydia has found joy and balance in her life off the course, with her husband Jun and their dog Kai, she’s still laser-focused on chasing greatness. With two wins already in 2025, she’s proving she can thrive in both worlds: the driven athlete and the happy human. The next few weeks? Another chapter in the story of the “Mini Tiger” all grown up.