World number two Jeeno Thitikul showcased her resilience in tough, windy conditions at the LPGA Mizuho Americas Open, carding nine birdies to finish with a remarkable seven-under 65, which put her at 14-under 202 and granted her a one-stroke lead over France’s Celine Boutier.
“I don’t know how crazy I am playing out there with this strongest wind ever,” Thitikul remarked about the challenging weather at Liberty National. She had a mix of highs and lows, including a mid-round double-bogey, but managed to maintain her edge in the tournament. Thitikul, who previously led by two shots after the first round, highlighted her strategy of staying patient and focusing on hitting fairways and greens amid the blustery conditions.
This week has seen Thitikul’s putting significantly improve after a disappointing performance at the Chevron Championship. She needed just 25 putts, reflecting the hard work she put into refining her stroke at home, which she believed contributed to her success this week.
Boutier finished the day with six birdies after scoring a six-under 66, which placed her at 203 overall. She captured three consecutive birdies at holes 15, 16, and 17. “I made a few really long putts today and yesterday, which normally doesn’t happen that much,” Boutier said, emphasizing the importance of patience in such challenging conditions.
Meanwhile, world number one and defending champion Nelly Korda, sharing the halfway lead, demonstrated her tenacity by overcoming an early bogey to finish with a four-under 68, tying for third with Andra Lee, who also shot a 68. Korda’s consistency remains commendable; she won seven titles last year but is still seeking her first win of 2025.
With more favorable weather anticipated for Sunday, the competition remains fierce but exciting as players prepare for potentially lower scores. Thitikul, Boutier and Korda are all in a prime position to capitalize on any opportunities that arise, fostering hope for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.