Jenny Bae, a 23-year-old rookie on the LPGA tour, showed why during Friday’s second round at the Mexico Riviera Maya Open. She stormed back with a dazzling 3-under 69. Incredible play like that has her firmly in the driver’s seat heading into the weekend, enjoying a one-shot cushion over the field. Bae finished her spectacular round with a birdie on the par-5 18th hole, showcasing how great of a finish she had.
The tournament is held at the beautiful El Camaleon course in Mayakoba. The stakes are high and players are clawing their way to the top. Bae’s nearest challenger, Brianna Do, had a rough go of it with a 75, finishing nine shots back. Meanwhile, Jenny Shin was the only other player to break par on Saturday with a 72, leaving her two strokes behind the pace set by Bae.
In a feat of immediate greatness, Miranda Wang shot the best round of the week—a dazzling 65. Wang’s astounding round featured seven birdies, which is a testament to her knack for taking advantage in a professional environment. She publicly shared her opinions about the course design, writing,
“There are good opportunities out there, short par 4s and short par 5s. Today, when I did well, I really took the chances.” – Miranda Wang
Other strong performances came from the likes of Maria Fassi, who ended up in T2 with a score of 6-under 138. Twitter / @gaby_lopezgolf — A disappointed Gaby Lopez shot a 73 to miss the cut. Chisato Iwai opened well with a 68 before regressing with a 74. At the same time, Bianca Pagdanganan followed a similar path, starting with a 68 before a 74.
“So I think for a player to have a good round here, it’s just like the short holes you have to get close and make birdies and the long hole, just make good swings and pars out there.” – Miranda Wang
As Bae heads into Saturday’s final round, she is more concerned about keeping the good vibe going. She admitted the pressure of being in the lead is definitely building up, but she’s fierce and confident in her answer to this pressure.
With two rounds to go, Bae is poised to make her move. She is now zeroed in on winning her first LPGA title at this year’s Mexico Riviera Maya Open and taking on a strong field of competitors.
“There is going to be some stress and pressure added to it, but I think as long as I keep my momentum and just try to stay positive on every shot and every hole, I think I’ll be OK,” – Jenny Bae
With two rounds remaining, all eyes will be on Bae as she aims to secure her first LPGA victory against a talented field at this year’s Mexico Riviera Maya Open.
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