Japan's Okayama and Takeda Lead Women's Ope

Post by : Priya

  Photo:AP

The 2025 AIG Women’s Open, held at the iconic Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales, has unfolded with exciting drama and standout performances from emerging talents, particularly from Japan. The tournament, one of the most prestigious events in women’s golf, has brought together the world’s best players in a battle for major glory under challenging yet fair conditions.

Japanese Players Shine Early

From the opening round, Japanese golfers have asserted their presence prominently on the leaderboard. Eri Okayama and Rio Takeda have taken the early lead, both shooting excellent rounds of five-under-par 67, putting them at the top of this major championship. Okayama was particularly impressive, making six birdies and showing resilience after recovering well from a rocky start. Takeda also demonstrated strong nerve and skill, overcoming a double bogey to play a solid back nine and share the lead.

Miyu Yamashita, another Japanese contender, remains just behind the top pair, setting the leaderboard ablaze with her powerful and consistent play. Her performance, along with Okayama’s and Takeda’s, signals Japan’s growing influence in global women’s golf, showing a deep pool of talent ready to claim major titles.

England’s Lottie Woad – High Hopes, Tough Start

England’s promising young star Lottie Woad, fresh off a breakthrough period where she won two significant tournaments, including the Scottish Open, has faced a challenging opening round. Despite flashes of brilliance, including birdies on several holes, Woad finished the day with an even-par score of 72, leaving her five shots adrift of the leaders. While the scorecard showed some bogeys that hampered her momentum, Woad remains a player to watch as this is only her second tournament since turning professional.

Large crowds gathered at Royal Porthcawl, especially to watch Woad play alongside the defending champion Lydia Ko of New Zealand and American Lilia Vu, adding to the atmosphere and pressure. Woad’s potential and previous successes promise an exciting few days ahead if she can find her best form.

Other Notable Players and Overall Conditions

Defending champion Lydia Ko and world number one Nelly Korda did not meet expectations on the opening day, illustrating just how demanding the course conditions were. Royal Porthcawl’s links-style layout, combined with typical Welsh weather—windy with occasional sunshine—has tested every player’s skill and strategy. The course requires precise shot-making, patience, and mental toughness, qualities that have been on full display among the leaders.

The tournament’s total purse of $9.5 million and its status as a major championship ensures fierce competition, with a blend of established stars and rising players hungry for their first major victory.

A Look Ahead

As the tournament progresses over four challenging rounds, the race remains open. The Japanese trio of Okayama, Takeda, and Yamashita have set a high standard early on, but the depth of the field means surprises could come from anywhere. Meanwhile, Lottie Woad and other young talents will be aiming to recover lost ground and leverage the support of the home crowd.

The storylines at the 2025 AIG Women’s Open go beyond just the golf scores. This event highlights the international growth of women’s golf, the emergence of new stars, and the enduring allure of a challenging and beautiful course steeped in history.

Tournament Details

• Location: Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, Wales

• Dates: July 31 – August 3, 2025

• Par: 72

• Yardage: 6,748 yards

• Purse: $9,500,000

Key Player Scores (After Round 1):

• Eri Okayama (Japan): 5-under 67

• Rio Takeda (Japan): 5-under 67

• Miyu Yamashita (Japan): 4-under 68

• Lottie Woad (England): Even par 72