American Auston Kim fired a six-under 66 to take the first-round lead at the HSBC Women’s World Championship, one shot ahead of China’s Yan Liu.
Auston Kim stormed to the top of the leaderboard with a six-under-par 66 in the opening round of the HSBC Women’s World Championship at Sentosa Golf Club. The American holds a one-shot advantage over China’s Yan Liu, who carded a five-under 67 in challenging conditions.
Tight Battle at the Top
Five players share third place at four-under 68, including world number 5 Miyu Yamashita from Japan, South Korea’s Haeran Ryu (world no. 12), and Sweden’s Linn Grant. Americans Lindy Duncan and England’s Mimi Rhodes complete the group tied for third.
Liu, despite the difficult conditions, remained focused on her game plan. “I know in practise round, I feel the course is difficult. So I very hundred percent focused and committed to what I want to shoot,” she said after her opening round.
The 2025 final major winner Yamashita appears well-prepared for the season ahead. “This year I’m managing my schedule with more rest and adjustments, and I feel like I’m coming in with good condition,” the Japanese star commented.
Course Conditions and German Representation
The scoring average of 72.31 reflected the challenging nature of Sentosa Golf Club, with hole 7 proving the most difficult at 0.28 over par. In contrast, the par-4 6th hole offered the best scoring opportunity, playing 0.28 under par with 26 birdies recorded.
Germany’s Esther Henseleit sits in a tie for 18th position after carding a one-under 71. The world number 36 will look to improve her position in the remaining three rounds.
Among the notable performances, LPGA rookie Mimi Rhodes expressed confidence about competing at the elite level. “My bad game is probably good enough and that when I have my A Game, I can compete with the best here, and that’s what I’ve dreamed about doing since I turned pro,” Rhodes said.
The field of 72 players managed just three bogey-free rounds, highlighting the test that awaits over the next three days. With 219 birdies recorded despite the tough conditions, opportunities remain for those who can navigate the course strategically.
This article was created with the help of AI and editorially reviewed.