ROYAL LYTHAM & ST ANNES, UK – The 2026 AIG Women's Open began with a spectacular display of golf on Thursday, July 30, 2026, as Thailand's Jeeno Thitikul fired an impeccable bogey-free 7-under 64 to seize a commanding two-stroke lead. Her dominant performance at Royal Lytham & St Annes has set a high bar for the rest of the field in what promises to be an enthralling conclusion to the Major Championship season.
Thitikul's Flawless Performance Sets the Pace
Thitikul's opening round was a masterclass in precision and control. Navigating the demanding links course without a single dropped shot, her 64 demonstrated remarkable composure and skill. This exceptional start immediately places her at the forefront, compelling the chasing pack to deliver equally stellar rounds over the next three days.
In hot pursuit is two-time major champion Haeran Ryu, who finished her first round at 5-under 66, showcasing her pedigree and experience. Further back, but still very much in contention, are Yealimi Noh and Celine Boutier, both tied for fourth at 4-under par. Their consistent play ensures that the leaderboard remains tightly packed just beyond the top two.
Korda's Quest and Betting Implications
Adding significant intrigue to the tournament is the presence of World No. 1 Nelly Korda. A victory at this prestigious event would not only add another Major to her impressive resume but could also secure her entry into the LPGA Hall of Fame, a testament to her consistent dominance in the sport.
From a betting perspective, Thitikul's exceptional start immediately shifts the landscape. Bettors leveraging BestOddsFinder's comprehensive data and web insights would be closely analyzing her form and the resilience of the chasing contenders. An opening round like this can dramatically alter current golf odds, with Thitikul likely seeing a significant boost in her implied probability of winning. Punters will now be scrutinizing how she handles the pressure of leading, while also considering the proven major championship experience of players like Ryu and Korda. Understanding moneyline strategies becomes crucial as the tournament progresses, especially with the fluctuating dynamics of a major event.
As the final Major Championship of the year, the AIG Women's Open holds immense significance. The tournament continues through August 2nd, promising four days of intense competition as players vie for one of golf's most coveted titles.
