In a move that has sent shockwaves through both the tech and sports industries, Apple CEO Tim Cook has reportedly offered golfing superstar Nelly Korda a staggering $245 million endorsement contract, with one very specific condition: that she publicly join an advertising campaign to promote the latest iPhone features and continue using and endorsing the device throughout her upcoming appearance at the prestigious Amundi Evian Championship.

The news, first reported by sources close to Apple’s marketing division, has ignited massive debate online, with fans and analysts speculating about the growing intersection between elite sports and high-stakes tech sponsorships.

A Historic Offer

According to insiders, the proposed deal from Apple would make Nelly Korda one of the highest-paid female athletes in endorsement history. The contract reportedly includes:

• A prominent role in Apple’s new iPhone global advertising campaign.

• Social media and personal appearances highlighting how Korda integrates the iPhone into her training, travel, and competitive life.

• Exclusive rights for Apple to feature Korda in commercials and digital content during the entire Amundi Evian Championship, one of women’s golf’s five major tournaments.

• A performance bonus clause tied to her success at the tournament and future events.

Industry experts estimate the total value of the deal—including potential bonuses and stock options—could ultimately exceed the initial $245 million figure.

Why Nelly Korda?

For Apple, the move signals an aggressive push to tap into the sports audience, particularly younger fans who follow athletes on social media. Nelly Korda, currently the world’s No. 1-ranked women’s golfer and an Olympic gold medalist, has developed a massive global following not just for her dominance on the course, but also for her approachable personality and broad appeal.

“She’s the perfect ambassador,” said digital marketing analyst Laura Chen. “She’s young, vibrant, tech-savvy, and has an image that’s clean and aspirational. If Apple wants to connect the iPhone with elite performance, discipline, and success, there’s no better fit.”

Tying Tech and Sport

This proposed partnership would be more than just celebrity endorsement. Sources say Apple envisions Nelly showcasing how she uses the iPhone’s newest features—including enhanced video capabilities, fitness and health apps, and on-device AI—to improve her game and manage the demands of professional sports.

Tim Cook has made no secret of wanting to position Apple devices as indispensable tools for elite athletes. A tie-in with a golfer competing on one of the sport’s biggest stages could be a masterstroke of marketing.

“Golf is a perfect platform,” said sports economist Dr. Julian Grant. “It’s global, it’s watched by affluent consumers, and the game itself is data-driven, making it a natural match for tech integration. Apple isn’t just selling a phone—they’re selling an ecosystem that’s supposed to enhance your entire life, including sports.”

The Stunning Response

Yet while the sports world buzzed about the magnitude of Apple’s offer, it was Nelly Korda’s reaction that truly stole headlines.

In a brief statement released through her management, Korda offered just a single sentence:

“I’ll only say yes if it makes me better on the course—and truer to who I am.”

That cryptic, measured response has set social media ablaze. Fans and pundits are debating whether Korda will ultimately accept the offer, or whether she’s hesitant to tie her personal brand so closely to a single company—even one as iconic as Apple.

What Comes Next?

Neither Apple nor Korda’s representatives have issued further official comments, leaving speculation swirling. Some insiders believe Korda may be seeking adjustments to the contract to ensure authenticity in how she promotes the product. Others wonder if the dollar figure itself—while enormous—might not be enough for a star known for carefully managing her public image and personal values.

For now, all eyes are on the Amundi Evian Championship, where fans will be watching not only Korda’s shots on the fairways but also whether she’s clutching Apple’s newest iPhone between rounds.

One thing is certain: in an age where tech and sports increasingly collide, the outcome of this blockbuster offer could set a precedent for how athletes and major corporations partner in the years ahead.

Stay tuned for updates as this extraordinary story unfolds.