Lottie Woad Struggles in Stunning Women’s Open Opener

The AIG Women’s Open kicked off in dramatic fashion at Royal Porthcawl, with Japan’s Eri Okayama and Rio Takeda seizing the early lead with impressive five-under-par 67s. Meanwhile, England’s rising sensation Lottie Woad faced an uphill battle, finishing her opening round at level par—five shots behind the leaders.

A Commanding Lead for Japan’s Finest

Eri Okayama, making her first Women’s Open appearance in six years, showcased nerves of steel, bouncing back from an early bogey to card six birdies in a near-perfect performance. Rio Takeda matched her compatriot’s brilliance, overcoming a double-bogey at the ninth with a blistering back nine that included four birdies. Together, they set the tone for an enthralling tournament.

Hot on their heels is Yuka Yamashita, another Japanese standout, who sits in solo third after a four-under 68. A tightly contested chasing pack at three under features South Korea’s In Gee Chun, England’s Mimi Rhodes, and Japan’s Yuna Saigo, proving the global depth of the Women’s Open field. Defending champion Lydia Ko and 2023 winner Lilia Vu had mixed fortunes, finishing one over and two over par, respectively—leaving room for new contenders to emerge.

Lottie Woad’s Gritty but Frustrating Start

Entering the tournament with high expectations, Lottie Woad faced a rollercoaster of a round. The 21-year-old Brit, fresh off her recent transition to professional golf, displayed glimpses of brilliance with birdies at the first, sixth, 14th, and 18th holes. Yet, inconsistent bogeys kept her from capitalizing on a stellar performance.

“It was a bit mixed,” admitted Woad after her round. “I could have let it slip, but I fought back. Still, I know I need to tighten things up tomorrow.”

Woad’s meteoric rise in the golfing world has been nothing short of spectacular. Earlier this year, she claimed victory at the prestigious Augusta National Women’s Amateur before securing wins at the Irish Open and last week’s Scottish Open—her first as a pro. If she rediscovers her winning form, she could still push for a maiden major title at the Women’s Open.

Standout Performances from Home Favorites

England’s Mimi Rhodes shone brightest among the home contingent, carding a confident three-under 69. The 22-year-old attributed her steady play to disciplined driving on Royal Porthcawl’s challenging fairways.

“I focused on taking it shot by shot—no heroics, just consistency,” Rhodes said. “This course demands precision, and I’m thrilled with how I handled it.”

Welsh golfers also impressed, with local favorite Darcey Harry posting a two-under 70 and Lydia Hall, who battled through qualifying, matching Woad’s level-par finish.

Charley Hull’s Rollercoaster Round

England’s Charley Hull, runner-up in 2023, endured a dramatic opening round. A disastrous three-over start through three holes seemed to spell trouble, but Hull roared back with five birdies in six holes around the turn. Just as momentum swung her way, four consecutive bogeys derailed her charge, leaving her at one over par.

Her playing partners fared better—world No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul of Thailand and Australia’s Minjee Lee both finished two under, proving that every stroke counts in golf’s most unpredictable major.

What Lies Ahead at the Women’s Open?

With 54 holes still to play, the Women’s Open leaderboard remains wide open. Woad tees off early in the second round, once again paired with Ko and Vu—a prime opportunity to make up ground. If she sharpens her short game and minimizes errors, a weekend resurgence is well within reach.

Meanwhile, Okayama and Takeda must maintain their momentum amid tough coastal conditions. Royal Porthcawl’s infamous wind and rain could reshuffle the standings, making adaptability and mental toughness crucial.

Will a New Star Emerge?

The stage is set for a thrilling battle between seasoned champions and hungry newcomers like Lottie Woad. Whether experience or youthful brilliance prevails, one thing is certain: the Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl will deliver unforgettable drama. Golf fans around the world should brace for surprises—because in this tournament, anything can happen.