In Irvine, Scotland, Lauren Coughlin secured a one-shot lead over Megan Khang at Dundonald Links in the Women’s Scottish Open with a strong finish on Saturday. Coughlin, who recently won her first LPGA Tour title in Canada, sank a crucial 20-foot putt among three birdies to card a 6-under 66. This performance has also put her in contention for a spot on the U.S. Solheim Cup team, as she expressed confidence in her current form saying, “I’m starting to hit the ball extremely well, and I’m just starting to feel really good about my game and myself and trying to keep it going.”
Meanwhile, Megan Khang, who began with 11 consecutive pars, rallied with three birdies towards the end to post a 69 and narrow the lead to one shot. Coughlin finished the day at 12-under 204. Charley Hull of England and Olympic silver medalist Esther Henseleit of Germany both sit three shots behind the leader after strong rounds.
The tournament saw a compelling storyline as Henseleit, with two Ladies European Tour victories and fresh off her silver medal in the Paris Olympics, briefly shared the lead with Coughlin after an eagle at the 14th hole. However, a missed short putt at the 16th cost her the lead. Hull, who had a slow start at the Olympics due to a shoulder injury, displayed improvement during the Women’s Scottish Open.
As the competition continues, players brace against the cold and some wear mittens between shots due to the chilly temperatures. The upcoming Women’s British Open at St. Andrews is on the horizon, and competitors focus on enjoying their game and aiming for birdies. Minjee Lee of Australia made a late stumble with a bogey on the 15th hole but bounced back with a birdie chip-in on the 16th.
Coughlin’s rise in the women’s world ranking and her current fourth-place standing in the Solheim Cup standings point towards a potential automatic spot on the team, solidified by a victory in Scotland. The matches are set for September at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia. For Coughlin, this would mark her debut on the Solheim Cup team, a prospect she eagerly anticipates as the event is in her home state.