A Lim Kim Takes Commanding Lead with a 7-Under 65 in LPGA Season Opener

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A Lim Kim delivered a flawless performance in the opening round of the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, marking the start of the LPGA Tour season in style. The South Korean golfer carded a bogey-free 7-under 65, securing a commanding four-shot lead over her closest competitors.

Kim, a two-time LPGA winner, including her major victory at the 2020 U.S. Women's Open, showcased her precision on the greens. She finished strong, birdieing three of her last five holes at Lake Nona, pulling ahead of Patty Tavatanakit and Jin Young Ko, who both shot 69.

“My shot is good. Putting is good. Everything is good. Cool,” Kim said after her round.

Despite having a home in Orlando, Kim admitted she had not been practicing much ahead of the season opener.

“In January, I focus on my body, not practicing. But today really surprised, yeah,” she added.

Among the chasing pack at 2-under were Rose Zhang, Yuka Saso, Hannah Green, and Celine Boutier. Meanwhile, top-ranked Nelly Korda opened with a 71, while defending champion Lydia Ko struggled with missed putts and finished with a 73.

In the celebrity division, former MLB pitcher Mark Mulder took the early lead. The 2017 champion showed his golfing prowess, staying ahead of the competition.