Ina Yoon shoots record-equalling 63 to lead Women’s PGA Championship
South Korea’s Ina Yoon fired a record-equalling nine-under-par 63 to establish a two-stroke lead after the opening round of the Women’s PGA Championship at Hazeltine.
The 23-year-old, who is still searching for her maiden LPGA Tour victory, matched the lowest single-round score in the tournament’s history.
She shares the championship scoring record with Nelly Korda, who achieved the feat in 2021, and Patty Sheehan in 1984.
A blistering finish proved crucial, as the world number 39 birdied five of her final six holes to surge clear of the field.
‘Awesome experience’ puts Yoon in control
Despite the magnitude of her achievement, the early tournament leader remained remarkably grounded.
“I just hit the golf ball and it just dropped in the hole and it was really an awesome experience.”
She explained that a disciplined mental approach helped her navigate the demanding prairie-style course.
“Just try to think nothing, focus on what I need to do and focus on the process.”
Australian Karis Davidson emerged as her closest challenger, carding a career-best 65 to sit alone in second place.
The 27-year-old rolled in eight birdies during a calm afternoon session to trail the leader by two strokes.
Korda begins historic pursuit as British hopes fade
World number one Korda remains firmly in the mix after signing for a two-under-par 70.
The American is attempting to become only the third woman in history to win the first three major championships of a single season.
However, it was a frustrating opening day for the leading English contenders in Minnesota.
Amateur standout Lottie Woad sits nine shots adrift of the lead following a level-par opening round.
Meanwhile, Charley Hull faces an uphill battle after finishing 10 strokes behind the blistering pace set by the South Korean pacesetter.
American Alexa Pano and South Korea’s A Lim Kim are tied for third at five under, safely tucked in behind the leading duo.
