Lucas Herbert and Yang Hyo-jin Lead at Australian Open Amid High Drama

Posted : 29 November 2024

Lucas Herbert showcased impressive composure to lead the Australian Open at the halfway stage, delivering a six-under 66 at Kingston Heath to sit at 14-under par. The Australian’s steady performance contrasted with a challenging day for fan favorite Cameron Smith, who struggled on the back nine.

After an encouraging start, where both Herbert and Smith eagled the first hole, Smith faltered with three bogeys and a double-bogey, finishing with an even-par 72 to drop eight strokes behind Herbert. Herbert now leads by four shots over American Ryggs Johnston, maintaining his dominance in the dual-gender event.

South Korean amateur Yang Hyo-jin continued to impress, taking the lead in the women’s competition by one stroke. The 17-year-old, who had been a surprise co-leader after the first round, proved her consistency with a two-under 71 at Kingston Heath despite having no prior practice round at the course.

Starting strong with four birdies in her first five holes, Yang overcame a brief setback mid-round and capped her day with a birdie on the 18th. She now sits ahead of notable names, including fellow South Korean Shin Jiyai and Australian Hannah Green.

Herbert, meanwhile, remained unfazed as he built on his stellar opening round at Victoria Golf Club, where he posted a flawless 63. He endured his first bogey of the tournament on the 10th hole but recovered swiftly with three consecutive birdies starting at the 13th.

Hungry for another title after denying Smith a victory at the New South Wales Open two weeks ago, Herbert aims to finish his strong year with a win on Melbourne’s sandbelt and secure an exemption to the British Open. Reflecting on his season, the 28-year-old expressed satisfaction with his achievements, calling 2023 a standout year.

The women’s competition remains wide open heading into the weekend, with several major winners in pursuit of Yang. Hannah Green sits two shots back after a one-under 71 despite battling jet lag, while South African Ashleigh Buhai, the two-time defending champion, remains in contention following a four-under 68 at Victoria.

As Yang seeks a fairytale win, the teenage sensation will need to fend off an experienced field eager to claim the Australian Open title.

Lucas Herbert and Yang Hyo-jin Lead at Australian Open Amid High Drama

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