PATTAYA, Thailand — Akie Iwai made probably the most of a sponsor’s invite to shoot a 10-under 62 and lead by three strokes after the primary spherical of the LPGA’s Thailand match at Siam Nation Membership’s Pattaya Outdated Course.
The Japanese participant began with 4 birdies earlier than choosing up three extra by the flip. She birdied three of her final 4 holes, equaling the 18-hole report set by countrywoman Yuka Saso in 2022 and American Jessica Korda in 2018.
“Right this moment, my photographs and my placing had been good,” stated Iwai, who has twice performed the course in a match. “I’ve discovered the place to overlook and the place to not miss. I get to know the golf course very effectively.”
The 22-year-old Iwai earned her LPGA Tour membership after ending in a tie for fifth on the LPGA Last Qualifier final 12 months.
Three photographs behind was world No. 27 Maja Stark of Sweden, who had an eagle on the fifth gap together with six birdies and one bogey for a 65. Native favourite Moriya Jutanugarn, with six birdies and a bogey, was third with a 66.
Birthday woman Jeeno Thitikul, the world No. 2 who turned 22 on Thursday, had a 68, whereas defending champion Patty Tavatanakit of Thailand shot 71.
The occasion is the primary cease of the LPGA’s Asian swing earlier than the tour strikes to Singapore and China over the subsequent two weeks.
