Lexi Thompson delivered an outstanding performance, carding a 68 to claim a one-shot lead after the first round of the Women’s PGA Championship at Sahalee Country Club, located near Seattle.
Thompson’s four-under-par round placed her ahead of fellow American Nelly Korda and Thailand’s Patty Tavatanakit, who both sit just one shot behind.
The 29-year-old Thompson, who won her only major title back in 2014, has announced that she plans to retire from full-time golf at the end of the 2024 LPGA Tour season.
Despite this, she remains focused on adding another major win to her record. Her first round was marked by a stellar start, with three consecutive birdies, ultimately totaling six birdies against two bogeys.
Korda, at 25 years old, is in pursuit of her seventh victory this year and her second major title of the season. Her round included six birdies, a double bogey on the fourth hole, and a single bogey.
Reflecting on her round, Korda said, “Overall, I played pretty well. I think I just had one bogey and one double. If you try to be aggressive when you’ve hit it off line, it just bites you in the butt. So I did on that hole.”
England’s Charley Hull and Ireland’s Leona Maguire both trail Thompson by two shots, each shooting opening rounds of 70. Hull’s round included a bogey on the sixth hole, but she quickly recovered with birdies on the seventh, 11th, and 13th holes.
“I felt like I played pretty well out there,” Hull noted. “Hit it pretty well. Pulled my hip out with like three holes to go, so I need to get some physio because it was affecting my swing. Hopefully, they can sort it out for me.”
Leona Maguire also had a strong start, staying within striking distance of the lead. Defending champion Ruoning Yin of China is positioned at one under after a round of 71, keeping herself in contention as the tournament progresses.
The Women’s PGA Championship continues to unfold, with many top contenders vying for the prestigious title. Fans can expect an exciting competition as these talented golfers navigate the challenging Sahalee Country Club course in the coming rounds.