PATTAYA, Thailand — Akie Iwai seized the opportunity presented by a sponsor’s invite, delivering an impressive performance with a 10-under 62 to take a three-stroke lead after the opening round of the LPGA Thailand tournament held at Siam Country Club’s Pattaya Old Course.

The talented Japanese golfer kicked off her round with four consecutive birdies and added three more by the time she reached the turn. She continued her excellent play, carding birdies on three of her last four holes. This remarkable outing matched the 18-hole record previously set by her compatriot Yuka Saso in 2022 and American Jessica Korda in 2018.

Iwai expressed her satisfaction with her performance, stating, “Today, my shots and my putting were good. I’ve learned where to miss and where not to miss. I am getting to know the golf course very well.” The 22-year-old golfer secured her LPGA tour membership by finishing in a tie for fifth at the LPGA Final Qualifier last year, showing a promising trajectory in her career.

Hot on her heels was Sweden’s Maja Stark, ranked 27th in the world, who recorded an eagle on the fifth hole along with six birdies and one bogey for a solid score of 65. Meanwhile, local favorite Moriya Jutanugarn stood third, posting a score of 66 with six birdies and one bogey.

Celebrating her 22nd birthday on Thursday, Jeeno Thitikul, ranked second in the world, concluded her round with a score of 68. The defending champion, Patty Tavatanakit of Thailand, finished with a score of 71, as the stakes grew higher in this prestigious tournament.

This tournament marks the beginning of the LPGA’s Asian swing, with subsequent events planned in Singapore and China over the next two weeks, drawing in golf enthusiasts from around the region and beyond.