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Japan’s Hana Wakimoto Stuns Field with Nine-Under 63 to Lead LPGA Japan Classic

Posted : 31 October 2024

Japan’s Hana Wakimoto stunned a competitive field on Thursday by shooting an impressive nine-under-par 63 to claim a two-stroke lead at the LPGA Japan Classic. Ranked 236th in the world, Wakimoto surprised the crowd with a flawless round that included nine birdies and zero bogeys, establishing her dominance early against top players and major champions. Her standout performance on the opening day set a high bar in a tournament featuring some of the sport's most celebrated athletes.

 

Close behind was former world No. 1 and two-time major champion Ko Jin-young of South Korea, who delivered a solid seven-under 65 without a single bogey. Ko’s performance, marked by seven birdies, placed her just two shots behind Wakimoto, keeping her firmly in contention. Despite the challenge of competing in a star-studded field, Wakimoto showcased composure, gaining recognition for her skillful play among LPGA veterans.

 

A host of elite players trailed closely, with Sweden's Linn Grant, Japan's Ayaka Furue, and South Korean golfers Kim Hyo-joo and Jenny Shin all sharing third place at six-under. Furue, who claimed her first major title at the Evian Championship in July, shot an impressive 66 with just one bogey. Other strong contenders included Australia’s Minjee Lee and Thailand's Ariya Jutanugarn, who finished their rounds at five-under alongside Korea’s Ryu Hae-ran, who recently placed third in Malaysia’s Maybank Championship.

 

Further down the leaderboard, US Open champion Yuka Saso held her ground at three-under, joined by Thailand’s Chanettee Wannasaen and Moriya Jutanugarn. Scotland's Gemma Dryburgh, the defending champion from 2022, found herself nine strokes behind the leader at even par. With Wakimoto leading in such commanding fashion, the remaining rounds promise heightened competition as top players strive to catch up in Otsu-shi’s Seta Golf Course.

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