PATTAYA, Thailand — Akie Iwai from Japan, a sponsor invitee, delivered an impressive performance with a 5-under 67 on Friday, giving her a two-stroke advantage at the midway point of the LPGA Thailand tournament, held at the Pattaya Old Course of Siam Country Club.

After beginning the tournament with a remarkable 62, Iwai now boasts a combined total of 13-under 129 over two rounds.

At just 22 years old, Iwai secured her membership on the LPGA Tour by finishing tied for fifth at the LPGA Final Qualifier last year.

Following closely in second place is American golfer Angel Yin, who shot a commendable 64 on Friday.

World number two, Jeeno Thitikul, who celebrated her 22nd birthday the previous day, is tied for third place after also scoring 64.

“I played well today and my putting was on point. My distance control was solid, which helped me rack up several birdies,” expressed Iwai following her round.

This tournament marks the beginning of the LPGA’s Asian swing, as the tour is set to continue on to Singapore and China in the coming weeks.