Akie Iwai showcased her exceptional golfing skills during her afternoon round at the Mississaugua Golf and Country Club, finishing with an impressive 7-under 64. Her stellar play throughout the day earned her a two-stroke cushion. In addition, it extended her newfound momentum after a breakthrough win at the Portland Classic just four days earlier.
The 23-year-old Japanese star has already won six times on the JLPGA Tour this year. She showed that confidence and precision all the way around the course. Iwai’s closing birdies on the par-4 eighth and ninth holes ensured that she finished atop a crowded leaderboard. Reflecting on the course, she expressed her admiration, stating, “Really beautiful course. Looks like something similar in Japan course.”
Her sister, Chisato Iwai, had a tough day as well. Double bogey on the eighth and bogey on the ninth, and she signed for a disappointing 75. She earned her first title of the year back in Mayakoba Mexico early this season. Even though she’s had a great tour, she couldn’t find her groove this time.
The competition was definitely still there as other strong competitors put on remarkable performances. Lauren Coughlin rounded out the day in sixth with 74, while Nelly Korda began her round with a flurry, carding a 69. The tournament embraced Jeeno Thitikul’s arrival. It was the first round she played after being elevated to the No. 1 position in the world rankings. Thitikul tied for second with Aphrodite Deng, Leona Maguire, Gaby Lopez, and 2023 champion Megan Khang.
Deng noted her strategy for the competition, saying, “Just trying to hit each shot and play in the fairway.” This approach seems effective as she remains in contention alongside several top players.
Canadian Brooke Henderson only helped to raise the day’s excitement by sinking four straight birdies. She carded four bogeys on her way to a final 71. At the same time, playing partner and newly crowned Women’s Scottish Open winner Lottie Woad struggled with a 75.
Akie Iwai’s recent win would have given her a lot of confidence and that’s just what she’ll need as she ventures further in this tournament. She remarked on the fleeting nature of success in professional sports, stating, “Last week I won, but already it’s in the past, already past.” Following up her victory with such a strong performance at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club, she has all the indications that there’s no stopping her now.
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