South Korea’s Ryu Hae-ran opened with a six-under 64 to take a one-shot lead after the first round of the LPGA Annika at Pelican in Belleair, Florida, on Thursday, while 18-year-old Kai Trump struggled through a difficult maiden LPGA appearance.
Ryu, a three-time LPGA winner, began her round on the 10th and made three birdies and a bogey over her opening nine. She then produced a decisive run of four consecutive birdies from the 4th to the 7th.
Her accuracy off the tee – hitting all 14 fairways – and 28-putt round underpinned her performance. She said she relied heavily on her 3-wood to avoid the narrow landing areas that awaited longer tee shots.
“Florida hasn’t been kind to me in the past, but I’ve always hoped to play well here,” Ryu said. “That’s why I’m so happy with the 64.”
Australian Grace Kim, winner of this year’s Evian Championship, signed for a 65 to sit one stroke behind. Starting on the 10th, she made six birdies before dropping her only shot at the par-four 8th. She holds a one-shot advantage over American Jennifer Kupcho, who carded a 66.
Four players – Leona Maguire, Mao Saigo, Charley Hull and Lee So-mi – are tied fourth on three-under 67.
Kim said the firm conditions suited her approach. “I took my chances on the shorter holes and made a few putts. It was quick and firm, which I really like.”
South Africa’s Ashleigh Buhai and Paula Reto opened with rounds of 70 to finish the day tied for 40th.
Kai Trump, playing on a sponsor’s invitation, posted a 13-over 83 – the highest score of the day – to sit last in the 108-player field. The high school senior, set to join the University of Miami next year, admitted nerves affected her early on.
“I was definitely more nervous than I expected,” she said. “I hit good shots but to the wrong spots. It took me about eight holes before I felt like I settled.”
Trump finished without a birdie, recording nine bogeys and two double-bogeys. She said advice from her grandfather, US president Donald Trump, and Tiger Woods to “have fun” helped her keep perspective.
“For a first time, being the youngest in the field, I thought I did pretty well. I had a great time out there.”
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– AFP
Photo: Julio Aguilar/Getty Images
Article Link: Ryu grabs LPGA lead, Saffas shoot 70