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Here’s what you missed from Round 1 of the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship

June 21, 2019

It’s hard to believe, but the third women’s major championship of the season is already upon us. This week’s KPMG Women’s PGA Championship is being held at the venerable Hazeltine National in Chaska, Minn., and all the stars of the ladies’ game are in attendance.

Here’s everything you missed from Thursday’s action.

Hannah Green leads

Australia’s Hannah Green leads the field at four under par. The 22-year-old is only in her second year on the LPGA Tour. Her previous best finish is T-10 at the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open back in February.

Lexi Thompson is chasing her second career major win at the KMPG Women's PGA Championship.
Lexi Thompson is chasing her second career major win at the KMPG Women's PGA Championship.
USA Today Sports

How'd the big names play?

Ariya Jutanugarn is only two back after a first-round 70. She’s currently T-4. She has two majors on her resume, but her best finish at the KPMG Women’s PGA is 3rd in 2016.

Lydia Ko is three shots back after a first-round 71 while Inbee Park and Lexi Thompson are four back at even par.

Jessica Korda fired a two-over 74, while sister Nelly shot 72. Last week’s champion Brooke Henderson shot a four-over-par 76.

Wie, Kupcho struggled

Michelle Wie, one of the biggest stars in the women’s game, has been struggling with a hand injury since having surgery last October. She returned this week with high hopes of competing but fired an opening round of 84. In an emotional post-round interview, she expressed doubts about how much more she has left. While the underlying meaning of her words is still unclear, she has not withdrawn from the tournament.

Jennifer Kupcho had a tough day as well. The Augusta National Women’s Amateur winner made her pro debut alongside Maria Fassi at the U.S. Women’s Open earlier this month. Kupcho struggled to an 84 in the first round at Hazeltine, which included a lone birdie and five double-bogeys. Fassi shot one-over 73.

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