Lydia Ko in running to end barren streak in California
Lydia Ko enjoyed a welcome return to form at the LPGA MEDIHEAL Championship by earning a place on top of the leaderboard at the end of the first day.
The last of Ko’s 14 LPGA Tour wins came almost two years ago in July 2016, but a four-under 68 at Lake Merced gave her a chance of ending that barren streak.
The Kiwi golfer has twice won at the course previously and those memories seemed to inspire her, as she eagled the par fifth and sank four birdies.
It gave Ko a share of the lead, with the 21-year-old alongside the quartet of Jessica Korda, Caroline Hedwall, In-Kyung Kim and Su Oh.
Catch up on first round highlights from the inaugural @MEDIHEALChamp! pic.twitter.com/NYVNBKpjrz
— LPGA (@LPGA) April 27, 2018
"This is a golf course where you need to drive the ball well and putt well," said Ko.
"It's nice to come back to a place where you feel super-welcomed.
"It just brings back a lot of great memories. My family and friends are here this week, so I'm hoping that I'm going to continue the solid play."
The USA’s Korda mirrored Ko’s round with an eagle on the fifth and four birdies, while Hedwall and Kim each sank five birdies. Oh was the only one of the co-leaders to enjoy a blemish free round.
The quartet of Lexi Thompson, Sei Young Kim, Charley Hull and Celine Herbin are just one adrift of the leaders after all shot a 69.
Latest
-
NewsRory McIlroy flying high after opening round of US Open at Winged Foot
The Northern Irishman is two shots behind leader Justin Thomas, who shot a five-under-par 65 at Winged Foot.
-
NewsA little more relaxation brings a little more action for Rory McIlroy at US Open
The Northern Irishman shot 67 on the opening day to sit two behind clubhouse leader Justin Thomas.
-
NewsPrayers answered for Rory McIlroy as US Open hopeful makes speedy start
The Northern Irishman is two shots off the lead after an opening 67 at Winged Foot.
-
NewsRory McIlroy makes strong start at US Open
The Northern Irishman is bidding to claim a first major title since the 2014 US PGA Championship.
-
NewsWATCH: Tiger, Rory, Rahm and DJ on what makes Winged Foot so difficult
Golf’s big buns give their thoughts on the tough test that lies ahead at the US Open.
-
NewsWATCH: Social media star pays tribute to Mickelson with special US Open song
Take a listen to the most heartfelt and emotional song about Phil Mickelson ever created.
-
News5 talking points ahead of the 120th US Open
We look at five talking points ahead of the year’s second major championship
-
NewsAll eyes on USGA when the 120th US Open gets under way at Winged Foot
The fact that last year’s championship took place without controversy over the set up of the course was a welcome relief for the organisation.
-
US OpenTiger Woods ranks Winged Foot as one of the most difficult courses ever
Tiger Woods is under no illusions as to the challenges facing the field when the US Open tees off at Winged Foot on Thursday.
-
NewsOn This Day in 2004: US power couple Phil and Tiger tamed by Europe at Ryder Cup
Woods and Mickelson were ranked second and fourth in the world respectively but Montgomerie and Harrington bested them.