Nelly Korda shoots career-best 36-hole score at LPGA event in Phoenix, building two-shot lead over defending champion Hyo Joo Kim.
Nelly Korda has found her rhythm at the Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, posting a career-best 36-hole score to establish a commanding position heading into the weekend.
Korda carded a seven-under 65 in the second round to reach 16-under par for the tournament, a LPGA Tour career low for 36 holes. The round of 65 represents her lowest second-round score of the week, building on a solid opening effort and giving her a two-shot advantage over the field.
Defending Champion Kim Remains Close
Despite the lead, defending champion Hyo Joo Kim remains well within striking distance at 14-under par. Kim posted a 69 in the second round after an opening 61, keeping the pressure on Korda through two days of competition. The close margin ensures Sunday’s final round promises to be competitive, with Kim holding the experience of having won this event before.
Lydia Ko made headlines in the opening round with a 60, one of the lowest scores of the week, but followed up with a 71 in round two to sit further back in the standings.
Amateur Talley Impresses with Historic Score
One of the standout stories of the tournament has been 17-year-old amateur Asterisk Talley, who carded a 65 in the second round to reach 10-under par overall. Talley’s 36-hole total represents the lowest score by an amateur on the LPGA Tour in the past five years, a remarkable achievement at such a young age competing against the world’s best professional golfers.
Korda’s performance through two rounds demonstrates the form that has established her as one of the tour’s most consistent competitors. With a two-shot advantage and two rounds remaining, the American is in pole position to claim the title, though Kim’s experience as the defending champion means the race remains far from decided.
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