Three golfers — Japan's Ayaka Furue, South Korea's A Lim Kim, and the United States' Auston Kim — surged to the top of the leaderboard with matching 4-under 68s during the opening round of the Blue Bay LPGA tournament on China's tropical Hainan Island. The tightly contested first day saw Thailand's world No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul trail by one stroke, joined by seven others at 3-under.
With 12 competitors just two shots off the pace, the $2.1 million event promises fierce competition as players navigate the Jian Lake Blue Bay course. China’s own Ruoning Yin, ranked fourth globally, drew significant local support despite a steady par-72 start, while defending champion Bailey Tardy faces an uphill climb after a 3-over 75.
Organizers noted ideal playing conditions on the island, a growing hub for international sports events. The tournament continues through Sunday, with crowds expected to swell during weekend rounds.
