Narin An took the lead in the CME Group Tour Championship with a stellar performance, carding an 8-under 64 in challenging windy conditions. An's hot putter led her to make four consecutive birdies around the turn, securing a one-shot advantage at the end of the first round.
The tournament features a $4 million prize for the winner, marking the largest single-day payoff in women's golf history. Nelly Korda, who has had a remarkable season with seven wins, faces an uphill battle after finishing the opening round with an even-par 72, trailing An by eight shots.
Despite her lackluster start, Korda has a history of coming from behind to win, having done so in four of her victories this season. With 54 holes remaining, she still has a chance to make a comeback.
An, a 28-year-old from South Korea, expressed her satisfaction with her putting performance, emphasizing the importance of focus in her game. She holds a slim lead over Angel Yin, who shot a 30 on the back nine, including an eagle on the par-5 17th hole.
Several players managed to navigate the challenging conditions well, with 27 players shooting in the 60s. The tournament offers a lucrative prize, with the winner guaranteed to break the 17-year-old LPGA record for the most money earned in a season.
The opening round also saw recognition for standout players, with Korda receiving the player of the year award and Lydia Ko being honored for her achievements, including winning an Olympic gold medal.
As the competition heats up at Tiburon Golf Club, players like Albane Valenzuela are focused on staying committed to their game plans and controlling their energy. With the allure of the $4 million prize at stake, competitors are gearing up for an exciting finish to the season.
As the tournament progresses, fans can expect intense competition and impressive performances as players vie for the prestigious title and the record-breaking prize money on offer.
