LPGA

Jeeno Thitikul opens with 64 at AIG Women’s Open in quest to win first major

Published 1h ago

Jeeno Thitikul walking on the fairway during the first round of the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Lytham & St. Annes.

Jeeno Thitikul made a statement during Thursday's opening round of the AIG Women’s Open. Playing at Royal Lytham & St. Annes, the 23-year-old Thai star finished with a bogey-free 7-under 64. This performance puts her two shots clear of the field as she pursues her first major championship title.

Thitikul has long been a force in the sport. She is currently one of only two players in history to reach world No. 1 without winning a major tournament. She navigated the links course effectively, relying on precise approach shots to avoid the difficult pot bunkers that challenged other competitors throughout the afternoon.

While the 2026 major season has been split between Haeran Ryu and Nelly Korda, Thitikul is positioned to disrupt that narrative this weekend. Ryu remains in contention after a 66, while other players like Celine Boutier and Yealimi Noh sit within striking distance at 67.

Thitikul noted her strategy remains consistent. She focuses on controlling what she can by beating the course daily. This approach allowed her to remain calm as she looks to secure the missing piece of her career record at this prestigious venue.