Saso leads Open with ‘lucky’ 68

MANILA, Philippines — Fil-Japanese Yuka Saso made her presence felt early in the US Women’s Open, firing a two-under 68 opening card to take pole position Thursday in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Saso, who’s been struggling this season, submitted a solid round of five birdies against three bogeys while much of the field struggled at the Lancaster Golf Club’s tough conditions, including No. 1 and heavy favorite Nelly Korda, who coughed an 80 after a disastrous 10 on her third hole.

The 22-year-old Saso, who ruled this major in 2021 while representing the Philippines, led Wichanee Meechai of Thailand, Andrea Lee of the US and amateur Adela Cernousek of France by one stroke. The trio produced identical 69s to trail Saso and pace 10 others, including major winners Sei Young Kim and Minjee Lee who carded identical 70s.

“I think I was luckier than I was good today. I made some really good putts and had very few long par putts towards the end,” said Saso.

Fil-Am Allisen Corpuz was among those who stumbled in the first 18 holes of the $12 million event, limping with a 75 for 70th.

Filipina amateur Junia Gabasa, meanwhile, had a rough debut score of 85 marred by nine bogeys and three triple bogeys for joint 152nd.