Yan Liu and Ashleigh Buhai share the first-round lead at the LPGA Tour’s JM Eagle LA Championship with impressive scores of 9-under 63 in chilly conditions at El Caballero Country Club. Liu birdied the final three holes after an opening bogey, while Buhai recorded nine birdies in a bogey-free round. Nelly Korda sits four strokes back after hitting every green but struggling with three-putts in her round of 67.
The tournament, relocated to El Caballero due to renovations at Wilshire Country Club, saw other notable performances, including Frida Kinhult's strong finish with three birdies for a 64. Madelene Sagstrom closed with a hole-in-one to join a group at 65, while Sei Young Kim and others posted solid rounds. Top-ranked players like Jeeno Thitikul, Lilia Vu, and Hannah Green also competed, with Lydia Ko opting out of the event. California teenager Asterisk Talley, playing on a sponsor exemption, showcased her talent with a 69.
The event featured competitive play with notable performances from various players, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the tournament at El Caballero.