Mao Saigo Leads After Second Round of U.S. Women’s Open

ERIN, Wis. (AP) — Mao Saigo posted a remarkable 6-under 66 during the second round of the U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills, earning her a three-stroke lead with a two-day total of 8-under 136. The 23-year-old from Japan aims to secure her second major of the year, having won the Chevron Championship a month prior.

Saigo, who started at hole 10, quickly birdied the 11th and 12th but faced a setback on the par-5 14th. After her third shot hit the flagstick, it bounced backward into a bunker. However, she recovered, birdying four times in her next five holes.

“I thought that was not my mistake,” Saigo shared through an interpreter. “I just thought to myself that it was just unlucky, and then I just changed my mind.”

Nelly Korda, the world’s top-ranked player, surged into second place with a 67, marking her best round in this tournament. Korda’s performance included seven birdies, showcasing a significant improvement from her previous round.

“I feel like I’ve had a very complicated relationship with U.S. Opens,” Korda admitted. “But I’m happy to be in the position I am heading into the weekend.”

Several players are in contention, including Jing Yan, Linn Grant, and Chiara Tamburlini, all at 4 under for the tournament. They are four strokes off Saigo’s lead.

Saigo’s impressive second round puts her in strong position as she looks forward to the weekend’s play. The tournament’s final rounds will see the top players compete for the prestigious title.