Miyu Yamashita Leads Women’s British Open with Stunning 65

URGENT UPDATE: Miyu Yamashita has surged ahead in the Women’s British Open, posting a phenomenal 7-under 65 on Friday, now leading the tournament by three shots at 11-under 133. The event, taking place at Royal Porthcawl in Wales, has seen both Yamashita and fellow Japanese star Rio Takeda dominate the field, leaving competitors trailing behind.

As the weekend approaches, Yamashita’s flawless performance has positioned her as the clear frontrunner, while Takeda remains the only player within striking distance, seven shots back. This marks a critical moment in the Women’s British Open, with the competition heating up significantly in the second round.

Yamashita began and ended her round with short birdie putts and showcased exceptional skill throughout, including four birdies in a five-hole stretch around the turn. “I didn’t make any particular adjustments to my swing,” Yamashita stated. “But the wind was strong, so I think shots are important, as well as club selection.”

Takeda, despite facing challenges with two bogeys, managed to recover with an impressive eagle on the par-5 ninth. She finished the day with a solid 69 and expressed her determination to maintain focus over the weekend. “I hope to focus on my game and play calmly again tomorrow,” Takeda said.

Among the top contenders, rising star Lottie Woad from England was on the verge of contention until a devastating triple bogey on the par-4 16th hole derailed her momentum. Woad finished the day at 70 and commented, “There was a lot more good in it than bad. Just that one hole cost me a bit.”

World No. 1 Nelly Korda is facing a tall order with a nine-shot deficit after shooting an even-par 72. “Honestly didn’t really capitalize on anything in the calmer conditions on the front nine,” Korda remarked, as she now fights to close the gap in the final two rounds.

With the cut line drawn at 2-over 146, several notable players, including world No. 4 Ruoning Yin and U.S. Women’s Open champion Maja Stark, failed to make the cut. Meanwhile, Yani Tseng, a two-time Women’s British Open champion, made her first major cut in eight years, finishing with 73.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes are on Yamashita, who has already made waves in the golf world. She led the Japan LPGA money list in both 2022 and 2023, winning five tournaments each year. With her birthday approaching on Saturday, the pressure and excitement are palpable.

As the final rounds unfold, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Yamashita maintain her commanding lead, or can Takeda or another contender mount a comeback? Fans and players alike are eager to see how this gripping tournament will play out.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Women’s British Open continues!