Hataoka Sets the Pace at LPGA Tournament of Champions with Impressive Opening Round
Japanese golfer Nasa Hataoka has seized an early advantage at the season-opening LPGA Tournament of Champions, carding a stellar 6-under 66 to claim a one-shot lead after the first round. The event, held at the chilly Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida, saw Hataoka showcase her skills, particularly on the back nine where she played in 4 under par.
Strong Contenders in Hot Pursuit
Hataoka's lead is far from secure, as she faces stiff competition from a talented field. LPGA Player of the Year Jeeno Thitikul, along with Chanettee Wannasaen, Lottie Woad, and Linn Grant, are all tied just one stroke behind at 5 under par. This tournament is exclusively open to LPGA winners from the past two seasons, ensuring a high level of play from the outset.
Hataoka's Momentum from Last Season
Hataoka's performance continues the momentum she built at the end of the previous season. In November, she secured her first LPGA victory in nearly three years by winning the Japan Classic in a playoff against Yuna Araki. Her strong start in Orlando suggests she is poised for another successful campaign.
Thitikul's Historic Season and Current Form
Jeeno Thitikul, the Thai star, is coming off a remarkable season that ranks among the best in LPGA history. She won the Tour Championship in November for her third victory of the year, finished second at The Evian Championship, fourth at the Women's PGA Championship, and achieved the lowest scoring average in the tour's 75-year history. On Thursday, Thitikul recorded six birdies and one bogey, demonstrating her consistent ability to climb leaderboards.
Other Notable Performances
Chanettee Wannasaen impressed with seven birdies during her round of 67, while Linn Grant birdied her last two holes to join the group at 5 under. Lottie Woad reached 6 under par but was set back by a bogey on the par-4 finishing hole, dropping her to 5 under. Nelly Korda, who finished second in this tournament last year, shot a 68 after reaching 6 under before a couple of late bogeys. Her highlight came on the 406-yard, par-4 seventh hole, where her approach shot bounced onto the green, rolled toward the hole, hit the flagstick, and left her with a tap-in birdie.
Defending Champion and Other Competitors
Defending champion A Lim Kim is part of a group at 3 under par, which also includes Lydia Ko and Ingrid Lindblad. With such a competitive field, the tournament promises exciting action in the coming rounds as players vie for the prestigious title.
