Lexi Thompson, Rose Zhang Join Nelly Korda in U.S. Women's Open Abyss

Lancaster Country Club challenges top LPGA players with high scores at U.S. Women's Open, including struggles from Korda, Thompson, and Zhang.

The Lancaster Country Club posed a formidable challenge to the competitors in the U.S. Women's Open, with a scoring average of 75.21, over five shots above par. Only four players managed to card under-par rounds on the first day, with Yuka Saso leading the pack with a 2-under 68.

However, some of the top LPGA players faced difficulties and posted surprising scores. World No. 1 Nelly Korda struggled, shooting a disappointing 10-over 80. She particularly struggled on the 12th hole, which proved to be the most difficult during the first round. The players averaged 3.8 strokes on this 161-yard par-3, with only 10 birdies recorded. Korda herself had a disastrous 10 on the hole, contributing to her overall score.

Despite a few bright moments, Korda failed to find her rhythm on the course, hitting only 7-of-14 fairways and 10-of-18 greens. She also struggled with her short game, losing 2.56 shots in strokes gained around the greens. While she managed to make three birdies on the back nine, it wasn't enough to salvage her round.

Thompson also faced challenges, with a lackluster performance on the course. Despite a birdie on the 12th, she struggled to find consistency, ending the day with six bogeys and a triple. Zhang, coming off a recent win, also had a tough day, ranking poorly in strokes gained putting and struggling with accuracy off the tee.

It seems that Korda, Thompson, and Zhang have put themselves out of contention early in the tournament. The difficult conditions at the Lancaster Country Club have proven to be a tough test for even the best players, reminiscent of last year's struggles at Pebble Beach. Hopefully, they can regroup and improve their performance in the upcoming rounds to make the weekend cut.