Japanese golfers Rio Takeda and Eri Okayama surged to the top of the leaderboard during the first round of the Women's Open Championship at Royal Porthcawl, showcasing Japan's growing influence in professional golf. Takeda, an LPGA Tour winner, recovered from a double bogey on the ninth hole with four birdies in her final seven holes to finish with a 5-under-par 67. Okayama matched her score with a clutch birdie on the 17th, highlighting a strong Japanese contingent that claimed three of the top four spots.
Miyu Yamashita trailed closely at 4-under-par 68, while three other Japanese players ranked within the top 12. Windy conditions limited low scores, but nearly half the field finished at par or better. Meanwhile, English rookie Lottie Woad, the world's top-ranked amateur-turned-pro, carded an even-par 72, staying competitive after a birdie on the 18th. Woad, 21, has already made waves this season with wins on the Ladies European Tour and a recent victory at the Women's Scottish Open.
The tournament's opening day underscored Japan's rising prominence in women's golf, with players leveraging precision and adaptability in challenging coastal conditions. Analysts will watch closely to see if the leaders can maintain momentum in the season's final major.
