Image source: Instagram/@nellykorda
Nelly Korda has soared to a three-shot lead at the women’s British Open, showcasing her dominance at the Old Course in St Andrews. The world number one delivered a flawless 68 in challenging, wet, and windy conditions on Friday, adding to her impressive performance from the first round.
Nelly Korda, starting early, led from the clubhouse with a second-round 68, free of bogeys. Equipped with a new ‘Spider’ putter, she made four birdies, including impressive long putts on the 17th and 18th holes. She now heads into the weekend at eight-under par, having skillfully navigated the tough weather on the links course.
Reflecting on the conditions, Nelly Korda said, “Yesterday was extremely windy, especially during my range session until around 4 PM. Today, it rained during my range session and into my first few holes. It calmed down on the front nine, but the wind picked up again on 18 and the first hole. I didn’t capitalize on the calm front nine, but I played solidly overall and I’m pleased with that.”
Charley Hull, who led overnight, posted a solid five-under-par 67 in Thursday’s wind but struggled with her putting on Friday, leading to three bogeys. She rebounded with three birdies to salvage her round.
Hull is tied for second with defending champion Lilia Vu, who shot a 70. Despite the challenges, Hull is optimistic about catching Nelly Korda this weekend. “I felt my ball striking was as strong as it was yesterday.” I just missed a few short putts early on. I didn’t putt as well today and struggled with the pace. But being only three shots behind Korda is not a big gap, especially on this course.”
Yin Ruoning from China climbed to fourth place with a birdie on the 18th, four strokes off the lead. Olympic champion Lydia Ko shares fifth place at three-under par with South Africa’s Casandra Alexander, who moved up with a 68, and Swedish amateur Louise Rydqvist, who posted a 67—the lowest score of the week.
In a touching moment, Catriona Matthew, the only Scot to win the British Open in 2009, played her final round at the event. She ended with a birdie and paused on the Swilcan Bridge to soak in the applause.
“I’m not sure if it’s fully sunk in yet,” Matthew admitted. Standing on the bridge felt a little awkward and embarrassing. It’s not something you consider when you’re playing for the last time. But it felt right to end my career here at St Andrews in Scotland.”
The excitement continues as the women’s British Open moves into the weekend, with Nelly Korda holding a strong lead and competitors eager to challenge her.
