Nelly Korda’s dominant run as the No.1 golfer in the world is about to come to an end, as Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul will move into the top spot for the second time in her career.
Steph Kyriacou’s final round couldn’t have gotten off to a much poorer start at the AIG Women’s Open, but a gritty and determined fightback saw her record a third consecutive under-par round to secure Australian bragging rights at Royal Porthcawl.
Shooting to join fellow Japanese star Mao Saigo as an LPGA major winner this season, Miyu Yamashita shot a two-over 74 in the third round to maintain a lead – albeit a slim one at one shot – in the final major of the year.
Japan’s Miyu Yamashita sits at 11-under and leads by three shots, as Steph Kyriacou, Grace Kim and Minjee Lee were the only Australians to survive the halfway cut at Royal Porthcawl.
On a day when the rising sun flag of Japan not only topped, but completely overtook the first page of the AIG Women’s Open leaderboard, the Australian contingent had some familiar faces lead the charge in pursuit of a women’s major hat-trick.
Kyriacou hopes similarities to home and some reflection provides the mix for her not to be left behind in the winning stakes by her Aussie compatriots.
Woad became just the third golfer in LPGA history to win in her professional debut. She’s also the 20th different winner on tour this year as each LPGA event has been won by different players – an LPGA record.
It is a rare delicacy in the modern menu of professional golf, yet self-confessed foodie Minjee Lee is ready to savour her annual taste of links golf starting with the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open, which tees off this afternoon, Australian time.
By all accounts, Craig Kessler is a people person. And it’s that trait the LPGA hopes to benefit from – along with his vision, golf connections and business savvy – as the 40-year-old officially takes over today as the 10th LPGA commissioner.
Australian Golf Digest
